Apparatus and methods for interference management in a quasi-licensed wireless system

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and methods for providing interference management and load balancing in a wireless network. In one embodiment, the method and apparatus utilize quasi-licensed CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) wireless spectrum in conjunction with enhanced SAS (Spectrum Access System) and base station (e.g., CBSD) components to enable creation and management of virtual clusters of bases stations connected to the network, so as to enable inter-cluster interference mitigation, while also supporting load balancing between the base stations using coverage area overlap. In one implementation, the SAS reduces the coverage area (transmit power) of one or more base stations on a cluster edge to mitigate inter-cluster interference, and increases or adjusts the coverage of one or more base stations inside of the cluster to enable load balancing.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The subject matter of this application is generally related to co-ownedand co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/214, 070 filed Dec.8, 2018 and entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMISSION POWERMANAGEMENT OF CITIZEN BROADBAND SERVICE,” Ser. No. 16/221951 filed Dec.17, 2018 and entitled “PRIORITY ACCCESS LICENSE HOLDER,” and U.S. Pat.No. 10, 368, 351B1 issued Jul. 30, 2019 and entitled “METHODS ANDAPPARATUS FOR ESTIMATING CITIZENS BROADBAND SERVICE NETWORK COVERAGE,”16/013, 103 filed Jun. 20, 2018 and entitled “CAPACITY MANAGEMENTMETHODS AND APPARATUS FOR USE IN A CITIZENS BROADBAND RADIO SERVICENETWORK,” and Ser. No. 16/718, 518 filed Dec. 18, 2019 and entitled“METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ESTIMATING WIRELESS NETWORK COVERAGE,” eachof the foregoing incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND 1. Technological Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wirelessnetworks and specifically, in one or more exemplary embodiments, toapparatus and methods for interference management and load balancingutilizing radio frequency spectrum, such as for example those providingconnectivity via technologies such as Citizens Broadband Radio Service(CBRS), Licensed Shared Access (LSA), TV White Space (TVWS), or DynamicSpectrum Allocation (DSA).

2. Description of Related Technology

A multitude of wireless networking technologies, also known as RadioAccess Technologies (“RATs”), provide the underlying means of connectionfor radio-based communication networks to user devices. Such RATs oftenutilize licensed radio frequency spectrum (i.e., that allocated by theFCC per the Table of Frequency Allocations as codified at Section 2.106of the Commission's Rules. In the United States, regulatoryresponsibility for the radio spectrum is divided between the U.S.Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the NationalTelecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The FCC, whichis an independent regulatory agency, administers spectrum fornon-Federal use (i.e., state, local government, commercial, privateinternal business, and personal use) and the NTIA, which is an operatingunit of the Department of Commerce, administers spectrum for Federal use(e.g., use by the Army, the FAA, and the FBI). Currently only frequencybands between 9 kHz and 275 GHz have been allocated (i.e., designatedfor use by one or more terrestrial or space radio communication servicesor the radio astronomy service under specified conditions). For example,a typical cellular service provider might utilize spectrum for so-called“3G” (third generation) and “4G” (fourth generation) wirelesscommunications as shown in Table 1 below:

TABLE 1 Technology Bands 3G 850 MHz Cellular, Band 5 (GSM/GPRS/EDGE).1900 MHz PCS, Band 2 (GSM/GPRS/EDGE). 850 MHz Cellular, Band 5(UMTS/HSPA+ up to 21 Mbit/s). 1900 MHz PCS, Band 2 (UMTS/HSPA+ up to 21Mbit/s). 4G 700 MHz Lower B/C, Band 12/17 (LTE). 850 MHz Cellular, Band5 (LTE). 1700/2100 MHz AWS, Band 4 (LTE). 1900 MHz PCS, Band 2 (LTE).2300 MHz WCS, Band 30 (LTE).

Alternatively, unlicensed spectrum may be utilized, such as that withinthe so-called ISM-bands. The ISM bands are defined by the ITU RadioRegulations (Article 5) in footnotes 5.138, 5.150, and 5.280 of theRadio Regulations. In the United States, uses of the ISM bands aregoverned by Part 18 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)rules, while Part 15 contains the rules for unlicensed communicationdevices, even those that share ISM frequencies. Table 2 below showstypical ISM frequency allocations:

TABLE 2 Frequency Center range Type frequency Availability Licensedusers 6.765 MHz-6.795 MHz A 6.78 MHz Subject to Fixed service & mobilelocal service acceptance 13.553 MHz-13.567 MHz B 13.56 MHz WorldwideFixed & mobile services except aeronautical mobile (R) service 26.957MHz-27.283 MHz B 27.12 MHz Worldwide Fixed & mobile service exceptaeronautical mobile service, CB radio 40.66 MHz-40.7 MHz  B 40.68 MHzWorldwide Fixed, mobile services & earth exploration- satellite service433.05 MHz-434.79 MHz A 433.92 MHz only in Region amateur service & 1,subject to radiolocation service, local additional apply the acceptanceprovisions of footnote 5.280 902 MHz-928 MHz B 915 MHz Region 2 onlyFixed, mobile except (with some aeronautical mobile & exceptions)radiolocation service; in Region 2 additional amateur service 2.4GHz-2.5 GHz B 2.45 GHz Worldwide Fixed, mobile, radiolocation, amateur &amateur-satellite service 5.725 GHz-5.875 GHz B 5.8 GHz WorldwideFixed-satellite, radiolocation, mobile, amateur & amateur- satelliteservice   24 GHz-24.25 GHz B 24.125 GHz Worldwide Amateur, amateur-satellite, radiolocation & earth exploration- satellite service (active) 61 GHz-61.5 GHz A 61.25 GHz Subject to Fixed, inter-satellite, localmobile & radiolocation acceptance service 122 GHz-123 GHz A 122.5 GHzSubject to Earth exploration- local satellite (passive), acceptancefixed, inter-satellite, mobile, space research (passive) & amateurservice 244 GHz-246 GHz A 245 GHz Subject to Radiolocation, radio localastronomy, amateur & acceptance amateur-satellite service

ISM bands are also been shared with (non-ISM) license-freecommunications applications such as wireless sensor networks in the 915MHz and 2.450 GHz bands, as well as wireless LANs and cordless phones inthe 915 MHz, 2.450 GHz, and 5.800 GHz bands.

Additionally, the 5 GHz band has been allocated for use by, e.g., WLANequipment, as shown in Table 3:

TABLE 3 Dynamic Freq. Selection Band Name Frequency Band Required (DFS)?UNII-1 5.15 to 5.25 GHz No UNII-2 5.25 to 5.35 GHz Yes UNII-2 Extended 5.47 to 5.725 GHz Yes UNII-3 5.725 to 5.825 GHz No

User client devices (e.g., smartphone, tablet, phablet, laptop,smartwatch, or other wireless-enabled devices, mobile or otherwise)generally support multiple RATs that enable the devices to connect toone another, or to networks (e.g., the Internet, intranets, orextranets), often including RATs associated with both licensed andunlicensed spectrum. In particular, wireless access to other networks byclient devices is made possible by wireless technologies that utilizenetworked hardware, such as a wireless access point (“WAP” or “AP”),small cells, femtocells, or cellular towers, serviced by a backend orbackhaul portion of service provider network (e.g., a cable network). Auser may generally access the network at a “hotspot,” a physicallocation at which the user may obtain access by connecting to modems,routers, APs, etc. that are within wireless range.

CBRS and Other “Shared Access” Systems

In 2016, the FCC made available Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS)spectrum in the 3550-3700 MHz (3.5 GHz) band, making 150 MHz of spectrumavailable for mobile broadband and other commercial users. The CBRS isunique, in that it makes available a comparatively large amount ofspectrum (frequency bandwidth) without the need for expensive auctions,and without ties to a particular operator or service provider.

Moreover, the CBRS spectrum is suitable for shared use betweengovernment and commercial interests, based on a system of existing“incumbents,” including the Department of Defense (DoD) and fixedsatellite services. Specifically, a three-tiered access framework forthe 3.5 GHz is used; i.e., (i) an Incumbent Access tier 102, (ii)Priority Access tier 104, and (iii) General Authorized Access tier 106.See FIG. 1. The three tiers are coordinated through one or more dynamicSpectrum Access Systems (SAS) 202 as shown in FIG. 2 and Appendix I(including e.g., Band 48 therein).

Incumbent Access (existing DOD and satellite) users 102 includeauthorized federal and grandfathered Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) userscurrently operating in the 3.5 GHz band shown in FIG. 1. These userswill be protected from harmful interference from Priority Access License(PAL) and General Authorized Access (GAA) users. The sensor networks,operated by Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) operators, make surethat incumbents and others utilizing the spectrum are protected frominterference.

The Priority Access tier 104 (including acquisition of spectrum for upto three years through an auction process) consists of Priority AccessLicenses (PALs) that will be assigned using competitive bidding withinthe 3550-3650 MHz portion of the band. Each PAL is defined as anon-renewable authorization to use a 10 MHz channel in a single censustract for three years. Up to seven (7) total PALs may be assigned in anygiven census tract, with up to four PALs going to any single applicant.Applicants may acquire up to two-consecutive PAL terms in any givenlicense area during the first auction.

The General Authorized Access tier 106 (for any user with an authorized3.5 GHz device) is licensed-by-rule to permit open, flexible access tothe band for the widest possible group of potential users. GeneralAuthorized Access (GAA) users are permitted to use any portion of the3550-3700 MHz band not assigned to a higher tier user and may alsooperate opportunistically on unused Priority Access License (PAL)channels. See FIG. 2 a.

The FCC's three-tiered spectrum sharing architecture of FIG. 1 utilizes“fast-track” band (3550-3700 MHz) identified by PCAST and NTIA, whileTier 2 and 3 are regulated under a new Citizens Broadband Radio Service(CBRS). CBSDs (Citizens Broadband Radio Service Devices—in effect,wireless access points) 206 (FIG. 2) can only operate under authority ofa centralized Spectrum Access System (SAS) 202. Rules are optimized forsmall-cell use, but also accommodate point-to-point andpoint-to-multipoint, especially in rural areas.

Under the FCC system, the standard SAS 202 includes the followingelements: (1) CBSD registration; (2) interference analysis; (3)incumbent protection; (4) PAL license validation; (5) CBSD channelassignment; (6) CBSD power limits; (7) PAL protection; and (8)SAS-to-SAS coordination. As shown in FIG. 2, these functions areprovided for by, inter alia, an incumbent detection (i.e., environmentalsensing) function 207 configured to detect use by incumbents, and anincumbent information function 209 configured to inform the incumbentwhen use by another user occurs. An FCC database 211 is also provided,such as for PAL license validation, CBSD registration, and otherfunctions.

An optional Domain Proxy (DP) 208 is also provided for in the FCCarchitecture. Each DP 208 includes: (1) SAS interface GW includingsecurity; (2) directive translation between CBSD 206 and domaincommands; (3) bulk CBSD directive processing; and (4) interferencecontribution reporting to the SAS.

A domain is defined is any collection of CBSDs 206 that need to begrouped for management; e.g.: large enterprises, venues, stadiums, trainstations. Domains can be even larger/broader in scope, such as forexample a terrestrial operator network. Moreover, domains may or may notuse private addressing. A Domain Proxy (DP) 208 can aggregate controlinformation flows to other SAS, such as e.g., a Commercial SAS (CSAS,not shown), and generate performance reports, channel requests,heartbeats, etc.

CBSDs 206 can generally be categorized as either Category A or CategoryB. Category A CBSDs have an EIRP or Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Powerof 30 dBm (1 Watt)/10 MHz, fixed indoor or outdoor location (with anantenna <6m in length if outdoor). Category B CBSDs have 47 dBm EIRP (50Watts)/10 MHz, and fixed outdoor location only. Professionalinstallation of Category B CBSDs is required, and the antenna must beless than 6m in length. All CBSD's have a vertical positioning accuracyrequirieren of +/−3m. Terminals (i.e., User devices akin orcorresponding tot UE) have 23 dBm EIRP (0.2 Watts)/10 MHz requirements,and mobility of the terminals is allowed.

In terms of spectral access, CBRS utilizes a time division duplex (TDD)multiple access architecture.

Disabilities with Interference Management in Shared Access Systems

Extant shared access architectures (such as e.g., CBRS), while usefulfrom many standpoints, currently lack mechanisms for interferencemanagement between different base stations (e.g., CBSD/xNBs) that aresuitable for operational scenarios where maintenance of prescribedcoverage area is critical. Specifically, there may be two or more basestations (e.g., CBSD/xNB 206 b and nd CBSD/xNB 206 c as shown in FIG. 3)that have an overlap 311 of their coverage areas, and hence one or morebase stations (e.g., CBSD/xNB 206 b) are considered as “interferers” tothe other base stations (e.g., CBSD/xNB 206 c) by the SAS 202, thelatter which implements interference mitigation as part of the currentCBRS architecture and protocols.

In the architecture 300 shown in FIG. 3, the coverage area of each basestation (e.g., CBSD/xNB 206 a, 206 b, 206 c) indicates the service areawithin which the user devices (e.g., 3GPP UEs) 314 are served by eachbase station. Coverage area is typically determined by the serviceprovider (e.g., MxO, which may be for instance a cable MSO or MNO), anddepends on several factors such as radio frequency/spectrum being used,cell geography and buildings, user density, and technology (e.g., 3GPP4G/4.5G/5G, or other). The core network 307 and MxO backbone 308provides the backhaul for the CBSDs for delivery of high-speed datato/from the UEs 314, such as to/from the Internet 309. The accessnetwork 310 (which may or may not be part of the network operatorinfrastructure) provides connectivity between the DP and SAS and the MxOcore and CBSDs, although the backbone and Internet may be used for suchpurposes in some configurations.

As described previously, the SAS 202 manages spectrum access to the basestations, by setting the operating channel and power for the CBSDs ande.g., FWA (fixed “UE”) whether using GAA or PAL spectrum. Data regardingthe spectrum allocated to each base station/CBSD, as well as itsphysical location, is maintained by the SAS. Additionally, theinterference between CBSDs (e.g., in in the overlap 311 between thedifferent coverage areas for the two CBSDs 206 b, 206 c of FIG. 3) ismeasured, and reported to SAS 202.

In the existing CBRS architecture, the interference management isperformed and controlled by SAS. Once the SAS 202 receives data such asinterference measurement reports from the base stations, it evaluatesthe data to identify the existence of unacceptable levels ofinterference between the base stations. Once such interference has beenidentified via the foregoing evaluation, the SAS 202 removes theinterference by reducing the transmission power (EIRP) of one or more ofthe base stations identified as interferers.

However, such reduction of CBSD power also necessarily reduces thecoverage area for that CBSD, thereby potentially resulting is reductionof signal strength to receivers such as UE's disposed at the edge of thecurrent coverage area (e.g., UE/FWA 314 c for CBSD 206 c in FIG. 3).Depending on severity, this power reduction will at best reduce dataperformance at the UE/FWA (i.e., throughput, due to having to reduce theMCS of the link between the CBSD 206 c and the UE/FWA 314 c), and atworst produce a complete loss of service to that UE/FWA (and perhapsothers) via a coverage “gap.”

Such reduction of transmitter power can also impact load balancingbetween different frequency bands. As a brief aside, when a network isdeployed with different bands and frequencies, operators often desire tomanage and balance user traffic load across different frequency bands.When too high, the traffic in one band is loaded or moved onto anotherband; such movement can be performed in various operational conditions(e.g., either in “idle” mode or “connected” mode in 3GPP systems). Suchcapability is often critical to maintaining proper customer servicingand the desired level of user experience.

However, in order to support such load balancing across differentfrequency bands (e.g., within the CBRS spectrum of 3.550-3.700 GHz), atleast some overlap between the coverage areas of the CBSDs operating inthe different bands must exist, so that a user operating in one band canbe handed over to a different (target) band without loss of continuity(i.e., the user's UE will not be able to connect to the new CBSDproviding the service in the target frequency band until they are withinthe coverage area of that CBSD, such as to enable sounding of newchannel conditions, etc.). For mobile UE (e.g., smartphones or thelike), while not desirable or ideal from a user experience standpoint,the UE can feasibly move from one cell/coverage area to another in suchscenarios, eventually re-establishing connectivity via the new (target)band and cell. However, for fixed UE such as CBRS FWA (e.g., antennaeand associated equipment installed on e.g., a user premises rooftop orbuilding facade), there is no opportunity for movement, and as such anyopportunity for load balancing across frequency bands supplied bydifferent cells or sectors is nonexistent if the SAS reduces power fore.g., the target CBSD such that the FWA is no longer in its coveragearea.

Thus, at a high level, the SAS's operational fundamentals can in manycases conflict with a service provider's traffic/load managementstrategy in the field, especially in e.g., densely populated urbanareas, where a high number of base stations (e.g., CBSDs 206) may bedeployed in a relatively small geographic area. This type of scenarioalso lends itself to the possibility of “multi-way” interference; i.e.,the foregoing example of FIG. 3 considers a more simplistic case of twoCBSDs (206 b and 206 c) interfering with one another—however, if thefirst CBSD (206 a) of FIG. 3 is also deployed proximate the other CBSDs,two-way, three-way, or N-way (N>3) interference may exist, therebyfurther complicating the problem. In such cases, the SAS 202 may decideto reduce power on one, two or even three of the CBSDs in order toreduce interference, and accordingly a number of UE/FWA devices 314 mayfall out of coverage (or at least the ability to load-balance acrossdifferent CBSDs as previously described).

Existing technologies such as (i) use of a high device antenna gain ordirectionality; (ii) use of Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (MIMO)system; (iii) Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) (iv)advanced error control coding (e.g. Low Density Parity Check Codes(LDPC) or Turbo codes) are known in the prior art to increase thethroughput and coverage area. All of these techniques, while effectiveand implemented in typical 3GPP-based systems underlying CBRSinstallations such as those described above, do not inherently mitigatethe effects of interference, and thereby alone do not effectivelyaddress the root problem; i.e., the innate tension between having toreduce transmit power of one or more CBSDs (or sectors thereof) by theSAS in order to mitigate interference, and having to maintainoverlapping coverage areas to permit cross-CBSD load balancing or othersuch functions.

Hence, based on the foregoing, improved apparatus and methods forinterference management and network operation are needed. Such improvedapparatus and methods should effectively mitigate interference betweenbase stations (and individual sectors thereof) such that their coverageareas can overlap, and support load-balancing across different frequencybands (and CBSDs) to enhance network throughput and coverage area.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure addresses the foregoing needs by providing, interalfa, apparatus and methods for interference management andload-balancing in a wireless services network, such as one usingquasi-licensed spectrum.

In a first aspect of the disclosure, a method of operating a wirelessnetwork having a plurality of base stations is described. In oneembodiment, the method comprises: determining locations for each of asubset of the plurality of base stations; identifying a radio frequency(RF) interference condition associated with at least one of the subsetof the plurality of base stations; reducing a transmission powerassociated with the at least one base station; and increasing atransmission power of another of the subset of the plurality of basestations to compensate for a loss of coverage area resulting from thereducing.

In one variant, the determining locations for each of a subset of theplurality of base stations includes determining a location for at leastone base station of the subset; determining a location for at least oneother of the plurality of base stations that is geographically proximateto the at least one of the subset; and forming a virtual groupingcomprising (i) the at least one base station, and (ii) the at least oneother base station.

In another variant, the identifying a radio frequency (RF) interferencecondition associated with at least one of the subset of the plurality ofbase stations includes performing computer modeling using one or morepath loss or propagation models, the computer modeling based at least onthe determined locations.

In a further variant, the subset of the plurality of base stations forma shape having an outer boundary; the reducing a transmission powerassociated with the at least one base station includes reducingtransmission power of at least one base station having a coverage areawhich intersects the outer boundary; and the increasing a transmissionpower of another of the subset of the plurality of base stations tocompensate for a loss of coverage area resulting from the reducingincludes increasing transmission power of a base station having acoverage area which does not intersect the outer boundary.

In one implementation thereof, the plurality of base stations comprise aplurality of CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) compliant CitizensBroadband Radio Service Devices (CBSDs); and the reducing transmissionpower of at least one base station having a coverage area whichintersects the outer boundary and the increasing transmission power of abase station having a coverage area which does not intersect the outerboundary, are performed so as to maintain an overlap of respectivecoverage areas of at least two of the subset of base stations so as toenable inter-base station load balancing, the load balancing comprisinginter-CBSD load balancing between two frequency bands each between 3.550GHz and 3.700 Ghz, the two bands assigned to respective ones of twoCBSDs participating in the load balancing process.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a wireless access point apparatusfor use within a wireless network is described. In one embodiment, theapparatus includes: radio frequency interface apparatus; digitalprocessor apparatus in data communication with the radio frequencyinterface apparatus; and computer readable apparatus in datacommunication with the digital processor apparatus and comprisingstorage medium, the storage medium comprising at least one computerprogram comprising a plurality of instructions. In one variant, theinstructions are configured to, when executed on the digital processorapparatus, cause the wireless access point apparatus to: generate andtransmit a message to a network entity to notify its participation in acomputerized optimization process; establish a connection with one ormore neighboring wireless access point apparatus; generate and transmitat least one first message to one or more user devices utilizing thewireless access point apparatus to obtain and report data relating toother ones of wireless access point apparatus; and generate and transmitat least one second message to the network entity, the at least onesecond message comprising at least a portion of the reported datarelating to the other ones of wireless access point apparatus.

In one variant, the computerized optimization process includes aninter-wireless access point apparatus load balancing process; and the atleast portion of the reported data relating to the other ones ofwireless access point apparatus enables the network entity to create oneor more virtual groupings or clusters of wireless access point apparatuswithin the wireless network, the one or more virtual groupings orclusters enabling performance of said inter-wireless access pointapparatus load balancing process.

In one implementation thereof, the wireless access point apparatusincludes a CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) compliant CitizensBroadband Radio Service Device (CBSD), and the inter-wireless accesspoint apparatus load balancing process includes inter-CBSD loadbalancing between two frequency bands each between 3.550 GHz and 3.700Ghz, the two bands assigned to respective ones of two CBSDsparticipating in the inter-wireless access point apparatus loadbalancing process. In one configuration thereof, the network entityincludes either (i) a SAS (spectrum allocation system) in datacommunication with the wireless network, or (ii) a SAS proxy entitywithin the wireless network. For example, the network entity maycomprise the SAS proxy entity within the wireless network; and the SASproxy entity, the wireless access point apparatus, and the other ones ofwireless access point apparatus are each operated by a common managednetwork operator.

In another variant, the reported data relating to other ones of wirelessaccess point apparatus includes at least one of PCI (physical cellidentifier) or transmit power.

In a further variant, the wireless network includes a wireless networkutilizing 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) 4G (fourthGeneration) Long Term

Evolution or 5G (Fifth Generation) New Radio compliant infrastructureutilizing Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum within thefrequency range of 3.550 GHz to 3.700 GHz, and the network entityincludes a CBRS SAS (spectrum allocation system).

In another aspect, a method of operating a base station within awireless network is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes:transmitting the data relating to a location of the base station to acomputerized base station management process; establishing at least onecommunication channel between the base station and one or moregeographically proximate base stations; obtaining data from the one ormore geographically proximate base stations via the at least onecommunication channel; causing provision of at least a portion of theobtained data to the computerized base station management process;receiving from the computerized base station management process networkdata relating to one of increasing or decreasing a transmission power ofthe base station, the data relating to the one of increasing ordecreasing derived based at least on the at least portion of theobtained data provided to the computerized base station managementprocess; and causing adjustment of the transmission power of the basestation based at least on the received data.

In one variant, the method further includes notifying the computerizedbase station management process network that the base station intends toparticipate in a load balancing process controlled by the wirelessnetwork.

In another variant, the method further includes receiving from thecomputerized base station management process network data indicatingthat the base station must participate in a load balancing processcontrolled by the wireless network.

In yet another variant, the base station includes a base stationdisposed on the edge of a virtual cluster formed by the computerizedbase station management apparatus; and the receiving from thecomputerized base station management process network data relating toone of increasing or decreasing a transmission power of the basestation, includes receiving data relating to a decreasing oftransmission power to reduce interference with another base station.

In another variant, the base station includes a base station disposed ona non-edge portion of a virtual cluster formed by the computerized basestation management apparatus; and the receiving from the computerizedbase station management process network data relating to one ofincreasing or decreasing a transmission power of the base station,includes receiving data relating to an increasing of transmission powerto compensate for a loss of coverage area within the virtual clusterbased on a transmission power reduction of another base station withinthe virtual cluster.

In a further aspect, a method for traffic load balancing among basestations connected to a wireless network is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the base stations utilize CBRS-band quasi-licensed spectrum,and the method includes: identifying the base stations; reporting theidentified base stations to a network process; and using the networkprocess to determine potential interference between two or more of theidentified base stations, and make power adjustments to mitigateinterference but also permit load balancing. In one variant, the methodincludes: identifying the base stations participating in the loadbalancing; creating one or more virtual clusters from the base stationsparticipating in the load balancing; identifying the base stations atthe edge of the one or more clusters creating interference on one ormore neighboring clusters; and enabling a mechanism to mitigate theeffect of the interference from the base stations at the cluster edge onthe neighboring one or more clusters while preserving some level ofcoverage area overlap.

In one variant, the base stations participating in the load balancingtransmit their identification, and update their location information, toa CBRS Spectrum Access System (SAS).

In another variant, each of the base stations participating in the loadbalancing instructs its served client devices (e.g., 3GPP UEs) to reportPhysical Cell Identities (PCI) of the other bases station participatingin the load balancing which the UEs can detect.

In yet another variant of the method, the SAS creates a virtual ‘networkoverlap map’ from the reported PCI data received from the base stations.

In a further variant of the method, estimating the interference levelcreated from the base stations includes estimating interference at oneor more clusters edges by at least selecting an interference modelfitted to the wireless channel propagation from the model stored in theSAS database; computing the interference power from the selected modelaffecting the neighboring the one or more clusters by the base stationsdisposed at the one or more cluster edges.

In further variant of the method, the enabling a mechanism to mitigatethe effect of the interference from the base stations placed at thecluster edge on the neighboring one or more clusters includes:identifying the base stations placed on the one or more cluster edgescreating interference on the neighboring one or more clusters; andcausing a power reduction for the identified base stations; and causingan increase in power for one or more base stations within theneighboring one or more clusters to increase their coverage in order tocompensate for the reduced coverage.

In another variant the method further includes dynamically performingthe interference mitigation mechanism by, e.g., dynamically establishingor modifying one or more virtual clusters, and/or updating a ‘networkoverlap map’ created by the SAS.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a computerized method of creating acluster including one or more base stations is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method includes: identifying the one or more basestations bearing a prescribed geometric or spatial relationship to oneanother; obtaining the information from the one or more base stationsparticipating in load balancing as to at least their identification; andallocating the one or more base stations bearing the prescribedrelationship at least temporarily to the cluster.

In one variant, the obtaining the information from the one or more basestations participating in the cluster related to at least theiridentification includes receiving the reported Physical Cell Identities(PCI) from one or more base stations.

In another aspect, a wireless base station is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the wireless base station includes: a processor apparatus; awireless modem chipset integrated circuit with the processor apparatus;a program memory in data communication with processor apparatus; an RFradio module; a network interface module interfacing to at least a corenetwork; and a storage device in data communication with the processorapparatus. In one variant, the storage device includes at least onecomputer program which is configured to, when executed on the processorapparatus, implement load balancing between the base station and adifferent base station in the network.

In another implementation, the wireless base station includes aCBRS-compliant CBSD based on a 3GPP compliant eNB or gNB. In a furtherimplementation, the wireless base station is a distributed unit (DU) ofa 5G NR gNB.

In another aspect of the disclosure, computerized network apparatus foruse in a wireless network is described. In one embodiment, the apparatusincludes: a network data interface; processor apparatus in datacommunication with the at least one wireless interface; and storageapparatus in data communication with the processor apparatus. In onevariant, the storage apparatus includes at least one computer programconfigured to, when executed by the processor apparatus: engage incommunication with the one or more base stations; obtain data from theone or more base stations; create a ‘network overlap map’ from at leastthe obtained data; and create at least one cluster from the one or morebase stations having partial overlap.

In one implementation, the computerized network apparatus includes aCBRS SAS configured to connect to an MSO network via an access network.

In a further aspect of the disclosure, computer readable apparatusincluding a non-transitory storage medium, the non-transitory mediumincluding at least one computer program having a plurality ofinstructions is disclosed.

In a further aspect, a method of operating a base station is disclosed.In one embodiment, the method includes: registering the base stationwith network by its identity; transmitting the data relating to the basestation location to the network;

establishing communications to one or more neighboring base stations viaa data link; notifying the network if the base station participates in atraffic load balancing controlled by the network; obtaining PCI valuesfrom neighboring base stations, and reporting them to the network; andreceiving control data from the network relating to increasing ordecreasing the base station coverage area in order to enable balancingof traffic load across the network.

In one variant, transmitting the data relating to the base stationlocation includes the long and latitude location.

In another variant the method further includes dynamically updating thebase station location information to the network such as when a new CBSDis installed or one is moved.

In another variant establishing communications to its neighboring basestation includes, establishing a connection via X2 link via a wireline(e.g., DOCSIS 3.1 or 4.0) backhaul operated by an MSO who also operatesthe base stations.

In an additional aspect of the disclosure, computer readable apparatusis described. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a storage mediumconfigured to store one or more computer programs, such as a controlsystem logic module of the above-mentioned SAS or CBSD devices. In oneembodiment, the apparatus includes a program memory or HDD or SDD, andis part of a CBSD.

In another aspect, an integrated circuit (IC) device implementing one ormore of the foregoing aspects is disclosed and described. In oneembodiment, the IC device is embodied as a SoC (system on Chip) device.In another embodiment, an ASIC (application specific IC) is used as thebasis of the device. In yet another embodiment, a chip set (i.e.,multiple ICs used in coordinated fashion) is disclosed. In yet anotherembodiment, the device includes a multi-logic block FPGA device.

In a further aspect, an integrated circuit controller apparatus for usein a base station such as a CBSD is disclosed.

In another aspect, methods and apparatus for bypassing or compensatingfor extant network interference management processes or policies toenable inter-cell load balancing are disclosed. In one variant, thenetwork includes a CBRS-based network infrastructure withSAS-implemented interference mitigation policies which tend to eliminatecoverage area overlap, and the method and apparatus are configured toenable maintenance of at least some overlap areas between CBSDs so as tosupport inter-CBSD load balancing.

In a further aspect, methods and apparatus for preventing aninterference mitigation process (e.g., SAS) from interfering with MxOcluster management and load balancing is disclosed. In one variant, themethods and apparatus effectively compensate for SAS-based powerreductions (and attendant loss of coverage area and overlap) viaformation of virtual clusters of base stations, portions of which can betreated differently or without regard to SAS-based interferencemitigation algorithms (and hence support maintenance of necessaryoverlap areas).

In a further aspect, methods and apparatus for determining an optimumnumber of base stations (e.g., CBSDs) within a virtual cluster aredisclosed. In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus identify bothpotential benefits and detriments associated with various virtualcluster sizes and/or shapes (e.g., using computerized modelingalgorithms performed at the SAS or an MxO process), including effects onor interactions with other clusters, and selecting an optimizedsize/shape based thereon. In one variant, multiple (two or more)adjacent clusters are modeled simultaneously, and each configuredaccording to the optimization algorithms referenced above.

In another variant, a desired shape or directionality of interferencemitigation is obtained via selective power modification of one or moreedge CBSDs, such that e.g., irregular shapes can be created if desired,such as to allow contouring to man-made or natural features or for otherconsiderations.

In a further aspect, methods and apparatus for selection and creation ofvirtual clusters are disclosed.

In another aspect, methods and apparatus for dynamic modification ofmembership and/or configuration of virtual clusters are disclosed.

In another aspect, methods and apparatus for use of client devices(e.g., UEs) for reporting data relating to base stations are disclosed.In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus are configured to cause theUE(s) to receive data requests from one or more base stations currentlyconnected to the UE(s), and responsively collect PCI or other datarelating to other base stations, and report that collected data to theconnected base station.

In a further aspect, methods and apparatus for determining neighborpopulations of potentially interfering base stations relative to atarget base station are disclosed. In one embodiment, the methods andapparatus are configured to utilize RF signal detection data from one ormore UEs associated with the target base station to identify other basestations ostensibly within RF range of the target base station.

In yet a further aspect, methods and apparatus for network planning aredisclosed. In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus includedisposition of base stations (e.g., CBSDs) at a plurality of geographiclocations within a given geographic region, the locations based onactual or projected usage by users (e.g., “hotspots”). The placementsmay be irregular (unlike normal cellular cell planning which tends to bemore regular), and any overlaps and interference between the CBSDs afterplacement is managed via use of the above-described clusteringtechniques and apparatus, including to allow maintenance of sufficientoverlap for load balancing or other purposes. The above-referenced“directional shaping” can also be used to help shape various clusterboundaries to maintain desired levels of coverage overlap. In somevariants, load balancing is applied via the overlap at prescribedlocations and/or times of day/days of the week (e.g., on an as-neededbasis during peak traffic times and within peak traffic areas).

In yet another aspect of the disclosure, methods and apparatus forclustering individual sectors of base stations are disclosed. In oneembodiment, each individual cluster has a unique PCI value, and overlapbetween two sectors of different base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) canbe determined and managed. In one configuration of the methods andapparatus, each sector may be treated as an “edge” cell and individuallymanaged in terms of power reduction. Likewise, individual sectors ofinterior or non-edge CBSDe devices can be managed to compensate for anylost coverage (including for directional shaping of coverage areas).

In yet a further aspect of the disclosure, methods and apparatus fordetermining geographically proximate base stations within a wirelessnetwork are disclosed. In one embodiment, the methods and apparatusutilize data obtained from communicative user devices (e.g., UE's whichare connected to a given base station) to canvass the local area andreport detected identifier (e.g., PCI) values for base stations (orsectors thereof) to the connected base station. The base station thenforwards these values to a network process which uses the PCI values tocorrelate individual base stations to network addresses (and optionallytheir respective geographic locations). The forwarding base station canthen utilize these network addresses to e.g., establish contact betweenthe base stations, including for X2 links.

These and other aspects shall become apparent when considered in lightof the disclosure provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graphical illustration of prior art CBRS (Citizens BroadbandRadio Service) users and their relationship to allocated frequencyspectrum in the 3.550 to 3.700 GHz band.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a general architecture for theCBRS system of the prior art.

FIG. 2A is a graphical representation of allocations for PAL versus GAAusers within the frequency band of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 is block diagram illustrating a prior art CBRS-based networkarchitecture.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a CBRS-basedtwo-cell network architecture with interference and cluster managementfunctionality according to the disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of aCBRS-based network architecture with interference and cluster managementfunctionality according to the disclosure, wherein three cells (andCBSDe) are used.

FIG. 5A is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between two base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices)according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between three base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices)according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5C is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andcomplete overlap between two “nested” base stations (e.g., CBSDedevices) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5D is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between six base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) within acommon cluster, according to another embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5E is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between four base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) withina common cluster and disposed proximate to a geographical feature suchas a body of water, according to yet another embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5F is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between four base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) withina common cluster and disposed in a linear array (“daisy chain”),according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5G is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between a first six-base station cluster and a secondcluster, with one CBSDe having common membership.

FIG. 5H is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between a first three-base station cluster and a secondsimilar cluster, with one CBSDe having common membership by virtue ofone or more individual sectors overlapping with one or more sectors ofCBSDe(s) within another cluster.

FIG. 6 is a graphical illustration showing UE traffic load balancingamong three base stations with overlapping coverage, according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a logical flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of ageneralized method for utilizing clusters for interference managementaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a logical flow diagram illustrating one exemplaryimplementation of the generalized method of FIG. 7, in the context of aCBRS-based system with enhanced SAS (SASe) and enhanced CBSD (CBSDe)devices.

FIG. 8A is a logical flow diagram illustrating one specific variant ofthe method of FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 is a logical flow diagram illustrating another exemplaryimplementation of the generalized method of FIG. 7, in the context of aCBRS-based system with enhanced SAS (SASe) and enhanced CBSD (CBSDe)devices.

FIG. 9A is a logical flow diagram illustrating one exemplary variant ofthe method of FIG. 9.

FIG. 10A is a ladder diagram illustrating one embodiment of acommunication flow between one or more UE, enhanced SAS (SASe), and oneor more enhanced CBSDs (CBSD e).

FIG. 10B is a ladder diagram illustrating another embodiment of acommunication flow between one or more UE, unenhanced SAS, MxO Proxy,and one or more enhanced CBSDs (CBSDe).

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of SASeapparatus with cluster/interference management functionality accordingto the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of MxOProxy apparatus with cluster/interference management functionalityaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment ofCBSDe apparatus with traffic load balancing functionality according tothe present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is another functional block diagram of an exemplary MSO and MNOnetwork architecture useful in conjunction with various principlesdescribed herein.

All figures © Copyright 2019-2020 Charter Communications Operating, LLC.All rights reserved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like numerals refer tolike parts throughout.

As used herein, the term “access node” refers generally and withoutlimitation to a network node which enables communication between a useror client device and another entity within a network, such as forexample a CBRS CBSD, FWA, or Wi-Fi AP.

As used herein, the term “application” (or “app”) refers generally andwithout limitation to a unit of executable software that implements acertain functionality or theme. The themes of applications vary broadlyacross any number of disciplines and functions (such as on-demandcontent management, e-commerce transactions, brokerage transactions,home entertainment, calculator etc.), and one application may have morethan one theme. The unit of executable software generally runs in apredetermined environment; for example, the unit could include adownloadable Java Xlet™ that runs within the JavaTV™ environment. Asused herein, the term “CBRS” refers without limitation to the CBRSarchitecture and protocols described in Signaling Protocols andProcedures for Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS): Spectrum AccessSystem (SAS)—Citizens Broadband Radio Service Device (CBSD) InterfaceTechnical Specification—Document WINNF-TS-0016, Version V1.2.1. 3,January 2018, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and anyrelated documents or subsequent versions thereof.

As used herein, the terms “client device” or “user device” or “UE”include, but are not limited to, set-top boxes (e.g., DSTBs), gateways,modems, CBRS FWAs, personal computers (PCs), and minicomputers, whetherdesktop, laptop, or otherwise, and mobile devices such as handheldcomputers, PDAs, personal media devices (PMDs), tablets, “phablets”,smartphones, and vehicle infotainment systems or portions thereof.

As used herein, the term “computer program” or “software” is meant toinclude any sequence or human or machine cognizable step s which performa function. Such program may be rendered in virtually any programminglanguage or environment including, for example, C/C++, Fortran, COBOL,PASCAL, assembly language, markup languages (e.g., HTML, SGML, XML,VoXML), and the like, as well as object-oriented environments such asthe Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA), Java™ (includingJ2ME, Java Beans, etc.) and the like.

As used herein, the term “DOCSIS” refers to any of the existing orplanned variants of the Data Over Cable Services InterfaceSpecification, including for example DOCSIS versions 1.0, 1.1, 2.0, 3.0,3.1 and 4.0.

As used herein, the term “headend” or “backend” refers generally to anetworked system controlled by an operator (e.g., an MSO) thatdistributes programming to MSO clientele using client devices. Suchprogramming may include literally any information source/receiverincluding, inter alfa, free-to-air TV channels, pay TV channels,interactive TV, over-the-top services, streaming services, and theInternet.

As used herein, the terms “Internet” and “internet” are usedinterchangeably to refer to inter-networks including, withoutlimitation, the Internet. Other common examples include but are notlimited to: a network of external servers, “cloud” entities (such asmemory or storage not local to a device, storage generally accessible atany time via a network connection, and the like), service nodes, accesspoints, controller devices, client devices, etc.

As used herein, the term “LTE” refers to, without limitation and asapplicable, any of the variants or Releases of the Long-Term Evolutionwireless communication standard, including LTE-U (Long Term Evolution inunlicensed spectrum), LTE-LAA (Long Term Evolution, Licensed AssistedAccess), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), and 4G/4.5G LTE.

As used herein, the term “memory” includes any type of integratedcircuit or other storage device adapted for storing digital dataincluding, without limitation, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, DRAM, SDRAM, DDR/2SDRAM, EDO/FPMS, RLDRAM, SRAM, “flash” memory (e.g., NAND/NOR), 3Dmemory, and PSRAM.

As used herein, the terms “microprocessor” and “processor” or “digitalprocessor” are meant generally to include all types of digitalprocessing devices including, without limitation, digital signalprocessors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computers (RISC),general-purpose (CISC) processors, microprocessors, gate arrays (e.g.,FPGAs), PLDs, reconfigurable computer fabrics (RCFs), array processors,secure microprocessors, and application-specific integrated circuits(ASICs). Such digital processors may be contained on a single unitary ICdie, or distributed across multiple components.

As used herein, the terms “MSO” or “multiple systems operator” refer toa cable, satellite, or terrestrial network provider havinginfrastructure required to deliver services including programming anddata over those mediums.

As used herein, the terms “MNO” or “mobile network operator” refer to acellular, satellite phone, WMAN (e.g., 802.16), or other network serviceprovider having infrastructure required to deliver services includingwithout limitation voice and data over those mediums.

As used herein, the terms “network” and “bearer network” refer generallyto any type of telecommunications or data network including, withoutlimitation, hybrid fiber coax (HFC) networks, satellite networks, telconetworks, and data networks (including MANs, WANs, LANs, WLANs,internets, and intranets). Such networks or portions thereof may utilizeany one or more different topologies (e.g., ring, bus, star, loop,etc.), transmission media (e.g., wired/RF cable, RF wireless, millimeterwave, optical, etc.) and/or communications or networking protocols(e.g., SONET, DOCSIS, IEEE Std. 802.3, ATM, X.25, Frame Relay, 3GPP,3GPP2, LTE/LTE-A/LTE-U/LTE-LAA, 5G NR, WAP, SIP, UDP, FTP, RTP/RTCP,H.323, etc.).

As used herein, the term “network interface” refers to any signal ordata interface with a component or network including, withoutlimitation, those of the FireWire (e.g., FW400, FW800, etc.), USB (e.g.,USB 2.0, 3.0. OTG), Ethernet (e.g., 10/100, 10/100/1000 (GigabitEthernet), 10-Gig-E, etc.), MoCA, Coaxsys (e.g., TVnet™), radiofrequency tuner (e.g., in-band or OOB, cable modem, etc.),LTE/LTE-A/LTE-U/LTE-LAA, Wi-Fi (802.11), WiMAX (802.16), Z-wave, PAN(e.g., 802.15), or power line carrier (PLC) families.

As used herein the terms “5G” and “New Radio (NR)” refer withoutlimitation to apparatus, methods or systems compliant with 3GPP Release15, 16 and/or 17, and any modifications, subsequent Releases, oramendments or supplements thereto which are directed to New Radiotechnology, whether licensed or unlicensed.

As used herein, the term “QAM” refers to modulation schemes used forsending signals over e.g., cable or other networks. Such modulationscheme might use any constellation level (e.g. QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM,256-QAM, etc.) depending on details of a network. A QAM may also referto a physical channel modulated according to the schemes.

As used herein, the term “quasi-licensed” refers without limitation tospectrum which is at least temporarily granted, shared, or allocated foruse on a dynamic or variable basis, whether such spectrum is unlicensed,shared, licensed, or otherwise. Examples of quasi-licensed spectruminclude without limitation CBRS, DSA, GOGEU TVWS (TV White Space), andLSA (Licensed Shared Access) spectrum.

As used herein, the term “SAE (Spectrum Allocation Entity)” referswithout limitation to one or more entities or processes which are taskedwith or function to allocate quasi-licensed spectrum to users. Examplesof SAEs include SAS (CBRS). PMSE management entities, and LSAControllers or Repositories.

As used herein, the term “SAS (Spectrum Access System)” refers withoutlimitation to one or more SAS entities which may be compliant with FCCPart 96 rules and certified for such purpose, including (i) Federal SAS(FSAS), (ii) Commercial SAS (e.g., those operated by private companiesor entities), and (iii) other forms of SAS.

As used herein, the term “server” refers to any computerized component,system or entity regardless of form which is adapted to provide data,files, applications, content, or other services to one or more otherdevices or entities on a computer network.

As used herein, the term “shared access” refers without limitation to(i) coordinated, licensed sharing such as e.g., traditional fixed linkcoordination in 70/80/90 GHz and the U.S. FCC's current rulemaking onpotential database-coordinated sharing by fixed point-to-multipointdeployments in the C-band (3.7-4.2 GHz); (ii) opportunistic, unlicenseduse of unused spectrum by frequency and location such as TV White Spaceand the U.S. FCC's proposal to authorize unlicensed sharing in theuplink C-band and other bands between 5925 and 7125 MHz; (iii) two-tierLicensed Shared Access (LSA) based on geographic areas and databaseassist such as e.g., within 3GPP LTE band 40 based on multi-year sharingcontracts with tier-one incumbents; and (iv) three-tier shared access(including quasi-licensed uses) such as CBRS.

As used herein, the term “storage” refers to without limitation computerhard drives, DVR device, memory, RAID devices or arrays, optical media(e.g., CD-ROMs, Laserdiscs, Blu-Ray, etc.), or any other devices ormedia capable of storing content or other information.

As used herein, the term “users” may include without limitation endusers (e.g., individuals, whether subscribers of the MSO network, theMNO network, or other), the receiving and distribution equipment orinfrastructure such as a CPE/FWA or CBSD, venue operators, third partyservice providers, or even entities within the MSO itself (e.g., aparticular department, system or processing entity).

As used herein, the term “Wi-Fi” refers to, without limitation and asapplicable, any of the variants of IEEE Std. 802.11 or related standardsincluding 802.11 a/b/g/n/s/v/ac/ax/ay/ba or 802.11-2012/2013,802.11-2016, as well as Wi-Fi Direct (including inter alfa, the “Wi-FiPeer-to-Peer (P2P) Specification”, incorporated herein by reference inits entirety).

As used herein, the term “wireless” means any wireless signal, data,communication, or other interface including without limitation Wi-Fi,Bluetooth/BLE, 3G (3GPP/3GPP2), HSDPA/HSUPA, TDMA, CBRS, CDMA (e.g.,IS-95A, WCDMA, etc.), FHSS, DSSS, GSM, PAN/802.15, WiMAX (802.16),802.20, Zigbee®, Z-wave, narrowband/FDMA, OFDM, PCS/DCS,LTE/LTE-A/LTE-U/LTE-LAA, 5G NR, LoRa, IoT-NB, SigFox, analog cellular,CDPD, satellite systems, millimeter wave or microwave systems, acoustic,and infrared (i.e., IrDA).

As used herein, the term “xNB” refers to any 3GPP-compliant nodeincluding without limitation eNBs (eUTRAN) and gNBs (5G NR).

Overview

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure provides improvedmethods and apparatus for interference management between two or morebase stations (or individual sectors thereof) within a wireless systemso that maximum throughput and coverage is achieved, including withindensely packed deployment applications.

In one embodiment, the network is configured to utilize “quasi-licensed”CBRS spectrum and uses 3GPP-based infrastructure and protocols. In orderto enable use of load-balancing algorithms that balance the traffic loadbetween the individual base stations/sectors within the network, thebase stations are specifically permitted to have overlaps in theircoverage areas, and hence a user device connected to one band associatedwith one base station can be handed over or moved to another bandassociated to another base station. In one variant, an enhanced SAS(SASe)—or an operator based proxy therefor—is used to create a networkoverlap map, and divide the population of base stations (CBSDs)(including in some cases individual sectors thereof) into “virtualclusters” based on their locations and coverage overlaps. The virtualclusters can advantageously be dynamically created, modified, or torndown, such as based on network operational parameters (e.g., time ofday) related to loading. Moreover, the virtual clusters can be shaped invarious configurations (and numbers of CBSDs/sectors), and can haveintersecting membership of CBSDs and/or their individual sectors.

In one implementation, the SASe (or proxy) first models the interferenceoutside of the virtual clusters, and based on the interference model,estimates the interfering power of CBSDs on the outside edge or borderof the cluster under consideration. The SASe may then cause reduction oftransmit power on one or more cluster edge CBSDs if producingsubstantial levels of interfering power. One or more CBSDs withininterior regions of the cluster can then be used to compensate for the“lost” coverage area and overlap created by the edge-CBSD powerreduction(s) in needed.

The exemplary embodiment described above effectively improves, interalfa, coverage area and enables inter-CBSD traffic load balancing,without the need to use excessive power at the CBSDs (and the variousissues associated therewith), or alter the general operational paradigmof the network; i.e., SAS-based reduction of power to reduceinterference.

In addition, the interference management and load balancing schemereferenced above increases overall network capacity without the need toinstall additional infrastructure such as CBSDs and associated backhaul,thereby effectively adding more customers to the network with a givenCAPEX (capital expenditure). Operator flexibility in placement of CBSDswithin a given area is also enhanced; operators may place CBSDs forexample at identified usage “hot spots,” and then via virtual clusteringand load balancing, adapt operation of those CBSDs dynamically asoperational conditions change (in contrast to e.g., a fixed-cell type ofapproach used in prior art cellular site planning).

The methods and apparatus described herein may also advantageously beextended to other shared-access architectures (i.e., other than CBRS)such as for example DSA, LSA, and TVWS systems.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and methods of the presentdisclosure are now described in detail. While these exemplaryembodiments are described in the context of the previously mentionedbase station (e.g., CBSDs such as 3GPP-based xNB devices), usingunlicensed or quasi-licensed spectrum associated with e.g., a managednetwork (e.g., hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable architecture having amultiple systems operator (MSO), digital networking capability, IPdelivery capability, and a plurality of client devices), or a mobilenetwork operator (MNO), the general principles and advantages of thedisclosure may be extended to other types of radio access technologies(“RATs”), networks and architectures that are configured to deliverdigital data (e.g., text, images, games, software applications, videoand/or voice or audio). Such other networks or architectures may bebroadband, narrowband, or otherwise, the following therefore beingmerely exemplary in nature.

It will also be appreciated that while described generally in thecontext of a network providing service to a customer or consumer or enduser or subscriber (i.e., within a prescribed venue, or other type ofpremises), the present disclosure may be readily adapted to other typesof environments including, e.g., indoors, outdoors, commercial/retail,or enterprise domain (e.g., businesses), or even governmental uses, suchas those outside the proscribed “incumbent” users such as U.S. DoD andthe like. Yet other applications are possible.

Also, while certain aspects are described primarily in the context ofthe well-known Internet Protocol (described in, inter alia, InternetProtocol DARPA Internet Program Protocol Specification, IETF RCF 791(Sept. 1981) and Deering et al., Internet Protocol, Version 6 (IPv6)Specification, IETF RFC 2460 (December 1998), each of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety), it will beappreciated that the present disclosure may utilize other types ofprotocols (and in fact bearer networks to include other internets andintranets) to implement the described functionality.

Moreover, while the current SAS framework is configured to allocatespectrum in the 3.5 GHz band (specifically 3,550 to 3,700 MHz), it willbe appreciated by those of ordinary skill when provided the presentdisclosure that the methods and apparatus described herein may beconfigured to utilize other “quasi licensed” or other spectrum,including without limitations above 4.0 GHz (e.g., currently proposedallocations up to 4.2 GHz).

Additionally, while some embodiments are described in terms of GAA 106spectrum allocation (see FIG. 1), the methods and apparatus describedherein may also be adapted for allocation of other “tiers” of CBRS orother unlicensed spectrum (whether in relation to GAA spectrum, orindependently), including without limitation e.g., so-called PriorityAccess License (PAL) spectrum 104, including selective allocation basedon e.g., role, functionality, resources, availability, subscriptionlevel, geographic/topological considerations, and/or other such factors.

Moreover, while described in the context of quasi-licensed or unlicensedspectrum, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill given thepresent disclosure that various of the methods and apparatus describedherein may be applied to delivery of heterogeneous services (includingalso allocation/assignment of spectrum or bandwidth to those services)within a licensed spectrum context; e.g., for cellular voice or databandwidth/spectrum allocation, such as in cases where a given serviceprovider must provide differentiated or heterogeneous service to users.

Moreover, while some aspects of the present disclosure are described indetail with respect to so-called “4G/4.5G” 3GPP Standards (akaLTE/LTE-A) and so-called 5G “New Radio” (3GPP Release 15/16/17 and TS38.XXX Series Standards and beyond), such aspects—includingallocation/use/withdrawal of CBRS spectrum—are generally accesstechnology “agnostic” and hence may be used across different accesstechnologies, and can be applied to, inter alia, any type of P2MP(point-to-multipoint) or MP2P (multipoint-to-point) technology,including e.g., Qualcomm Multefire.

Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will immediatelybe recognized by persons of ordinary skill in the art with reference tothe attached drawings and detailed description of exemplary embodimentsas given below.

Interference Management and Load Balancing Architecture

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a CBRS-basednetwork architecture with interference and cluster managementfunctionality (e.g., to support load balancing) according to thedisclosure.

As shown, the architecture 400 of FIG. 4 includes two enhanced CBSDs(CBSDe) 406 a, 406 b having respective coverage areas 408 a, 408 b,which have overlap in their coverage areas, and serving the variousUE/FWA devices 314 a, 314 b, 314 c, 314 d. These CBSDe devices areenhanced relative to prior art CBSDs at least in that each may performthe data collection, virtual clustering, and load balancing functionsand operations described herein. It will be appreciated that while onlytwo cells are shown in FIG. 4 for simplicity of illustration, more cellsand different spatial relationships between the cells may be usedconsistent with the present disclosure (see, e.g., FIG. 4A).

It will also be appreciated that while the following discussion is castprimarily in terms of base stations such as the exemplary CBSDe devices,the various principles may be readily applied to individual sectors ofthose base stations where so equipped (e.g., where sectorized versusomnidirectional antenna elements are used).

As illustrated, the CBSDe devices 406 a, 406 b can communicate with eachother via a 3GPP X2 link 410, as well as with network entities (e.g.,SASe) tasked with evaluating interference between the CBSDe devices andlogically grouping them into “clusters,” as described in greater detailsubsequently herein. The inter-CBSDe connectivity allows, inter alfa,exchange of data between CBSDe within logical groupings or “virtualclusters” of cells, such as to support load balancing and other types ofcooperation between the individual cells.

The served UE/FWA 314 a, 314 b, 314 c are within the coverage areas 408a, 408 b of the CBSDe devices, and wirelessly connected to their servingCBSDe 406 a, 406 b respectively (e.g., via 3GPP RRC-Connected state).The UE/FWA 314 b in this example is in the overlap region 404 b etweencoverage areas 408 a, 408 b, and is connected to CBSDe 2 406 b, andhence, due to the overlap, the UE 314 b can seamlessly handover to CBSDe1 406 a (e.g., via transition to a different frequency band utilized bythe recipient CBSDe). Herein lies a salient feature of the architectureof FIG. 4 (and those described subsequently herein); i.e., that theoverlap 404 between the coverage areas 408 of each CBSDe are“intelligently” controlled and not eliminated, so as to permit the CBSDe406 such handover opportunity for load-balancing, equipment failure, orother reasons. The other UE/FWA 314 a, 314 c which are not presentlyshown as being within any overlap region ostensibly cannot beload-balanced from cell to cell; however, those within the overlapregions can be transferred to offload common serving CBSDe devices, andmoreover some UE/FWA devices may fall within our outside of overlapregions 404 dynamically, based on power adjustments by the SASe. Hence,a UE or FWA 314 that at one point in time is not within an overlapregion may later find itself within an overlap region, such as aftervirtual cluster management is applied, or vice versa.

It will be appreciated that while mobile UE devices 314 may be connectedto a given CBSDe and “handed over” as described above, the handoversdescribed herein are to be distinguished from traditional cellularsystem handovers in that (1) fixed devices such as CBRS FWA can be“handed over” from cell to cell, and (ii) the handovers may bepredicated entirely on load balancing, versus purely mobility in thecase of mobile cellular UE.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the CBSDe devices 406 are managed andcontrolled by the MSO core 307, and are connected to the enhanced SAS(SASe) 402 via the MNO access network 310 and Domain Proxy (DP). An MSObackbone 308 also connects the core (and CBSDe devices) to the Internet309 or other such untrusted internetwork, which in some alternativeembodiments may also/alternatively be used as the medium forcommunication with the DP/SASe (i.e., instead of the access network).

The coverage areas 408 a, 408 b of the CBSDe devices 406 a, 406 b and remanaged by the SASe 402. The SASe allocates the operating spectrum bandsto the various CBSDe/sectors, determines transmitter power levels foreach, and determines any interference (including in the overlap area).In some scenarios, where the interference between the CBSDe devices 406is higher than a prescribed value, the SASe may reduce transmissionpower for one or more of the CBSDe, and boost transmission power forothers, as described in greater detail subsequently herein.

It will be appreciated that instead of base stations such as CBSDe 406a, 406 b, other types of devices may be used as the basis for providingservices. For instance, other CPE/FWA apparatus configured forsupplementation or out-of-coverage service within a given area may beused within the architecture 400, such as those described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/738,889 filed Jan. 9, 2020 entitled “METHODS ANDAPPARATUS FOR SERVICE PROVISION TO OUT-OF-COVERAGE APPARATUS IN WIRELESSSYSTEMS”, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,368,853 on Jun. 21, 2022, aswell as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/676,188 filed Nov. 6, 2019and entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCING COVERAGE INQUASI-LICENSED WIRELESS SYSTEMS,” each of the foregoing incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. For example, as described therein,wireless coverage for an exemplary unlicensed or quasi-licensed UE/FWA314 that is at or beyond a coverage “edge” of a given network (or isotherwise experiencing less-than-adequate signal strength for whateverreason) may be provided service via “relay” and/or supplementation ofservices from a better-positioned “in coverage” CPE/FWA of the samenetwork.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of aCBRS-based network architecture 440 with interference and clustermanagement functionality according to the disclosure, wherein threecells (and CBSDe) are used. In this embodiment, three cells/CBSDe 404 a,406 b, 406 c are communicative with one another via respective X2interfaces 410, and the three cell coverage areas 408 a, 408 b, 408 coverlap in several areas 444. Served UE/FWA devices 314 may be withinour outside of the overlap regions, depending on UE/FWA placement andCBSDe placement.

As a brief aside, typical cellular network planning involves placementof base stations (e.g., eNBs) at locations such that a “honeycomb” orother cell pattern is adhered to. This approach allows maximal coveragevia interlocking cells that may overlap one another to a limited degree.In contrast, in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure,disposition of base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) at a plurality ofgeographic locations within a given geographic region is based on actualor projected usage by users (e.g., “hotspots”). The placements may beirregular (unlike normal cellular cell planning which tends to be moreregular), and any overlaps and interference between the CBSDe devicesafter placement is managed via use of the above-described clusteringtechniques and apparatus, including to allow maintenance of sufficientoverlap for load balancing or other purposes. “Directional shaping” ofvirtual clusters (discussed in greater detail below) can also be used tohelp shape various cluster (VC) boundaries to maintain desired levels ofcoverage overlap. In some variants, load balancing is applied via theoverlap at prescribed locations and/or times of day/days of the week(e.g., on an as-needed basis during peak traffic times and within peaktraffic areas). As such, the network operator (e.g., MSO or MNO) is freeto place its base stations where demand/user density will most likely behigh, and adjust for the desired degree of overlap through VC membershipand policies (as well as individual CBSDe transmit power levels asimposed by the SASe 402).

FIG. 5A is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between two base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices of FIG.4) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As can beappreciated, FIG. 5A (and other subsequent figures) treats each CBSDe ashaving a generally omnidirectional and uniform radiation pattern(represented by the generally circular areas shown) for purposes ofillustration, although in reality such patterns may be more complex, andmoreover may be affected by control of each CBSDe on an individualsector basis as described in greater detail subsequently herein.

As shown, load transfer 517 (i.e., of the UE/FWA within the overlap zone404) between the two CBSDe devices can occur, such as under loadbalancing. As previously described, such load balancing may cause theUE/FWA to connect to the second CBSDe simultaneously while connected tothe first CBSDe on a different frequency, and then terminate theconnection to the first CBSDe so as to reduce load thereon. In thisscenario, each CBSDe can be considered an interferer for the otherCBSDe; their coverage areas 505, 507 have partial overlap 404. The SASe402 may create a virtual cluster from just these two CBSDe′ 406 a, 406b, and store data relating to their coverage overlap 404, and anyregistered UE/FWA devices therein, in a network overlap map (asdescribed in greater detail below).

FIG. 5B is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between three base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices)according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, thethree coverage areas 503, 507, 511 each overlap with one another, andaccordingly any UE/FWA within such overlap areas can be selectivelymigrated to other CBSDe devices. As shown, one UE/FWA 314 a is withinthe common overlap areas of all CBDE's in this example, and hence can bemigrated from and to any CBSDe shown. This illustrates another featureof the disclosure; i.e., the possibility for multi-layer overlap, whichcan in certain instances be used to add flexibility to load balancingalgorithms without undue impact on interference between the CBSDedevices.

FIG. 5C is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andcomplete overlap between two “nested” base stations (e.g., CBSDedevices) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Inthis scenario, the coverage area 507 of the second CBSDe 406 b iscompletely subsumed within that 503 of the first CBSDe 406 a, such thatthe second CBSDe is nested within the first (albeit with differentphysical locations for the individual CBSDe devices themselves). In thiscase, either of the first two UE/FWA devices 314 a, 314 b shown can bemigrated between the two CBSDe devices, while the third device 314 ccannot.

FIG. 5D is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between six base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) within acommon cluster, according to another embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As shown, each of the CBSDe 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, 406 d, 406e, 406 f have coverage respective areas 553, 555, 557, 558, 559, 561. Inthis scenario, the outer CBSDe 1 through 5 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, 406 d,406 e, are considered edge CBSDe devices since they are on the boundary551 of the cluster, while CBSDe 6 406 f is an interior or non-edge CBSDe(and hence has no opportunity for interference with other cells outsideof the cluster, or other adjacent clusters. Depending on overlap(deleted from this figure for clarity, as are all inter CBSDe X2interfaces), UE/FWA devices can be migrated from (i) an edge CBSDeto/from another edge CBSDe; and (ii) an edge CBSDe to/from an interiorCBSDe, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 5D.

FIG. 5E is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between four base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) withina common cluster and disposed proximate to a geographical feature suchas a body of water, according to yet another embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As shown, the boundary 561 has three “edge” CBSDe devices1-3 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, and one interior or non-edge CBSDe 406 d. Thecluster 560 is effectively truncated since three cells 406 a, 406 c, and406 d back up to the body of water, and as such their respectivecoverage area may or may not present any interference to at least UE/FWA(since likely none are disposed on the body of water, at least in anynumber of significance). However, incumbents such as DoD assets 588 maybe on the body of water, and as such the SASe 402 may be required toreduce transmit power or switch frequencies (due to withdrawal) forthose three cells, which may also necessitate load balancing of UE/FWAbetween the CBSDe. As such, placement of the interior CBSDe 406 d tooclose to the water body should be avoided, since it may inhibit theinterior cell's ability to compensate for power reductions on the(land-side) edge cells 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, because its power is cappedto avoid incumbent asset interference on the body of water.

FIG. 5F is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between four base stations (e.g., CBSDe devices) withina common cluster and disposed in a linear array (“daisy chain”),according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown,this cluster 570 includes four CBSDe devices in linear arrangement,wherein each of the UE/FWA in the overlap areas can be migrated betweentwo adjacent cells. In this instance, X2 interfaces (not shown) existbetween each “pair” or adjacent cells (i.e., between CBSDe 1 and CBSDe2, between CBSDe 2 and CBSDe 3 and between CBSDe 3 and CBSDe 4). AllCBSDe devices are considered edge devices due to their proximity to thecluster boundary 571 a. In this case, since there is no interior cell orCBSDe to compensate for reductions in coverage area of the edge cells(all are edge cells), loss of overlap between cells in the cluster mayoccur when the coverage area of edge cells is required. Accordingly,directional cell shaping as described herein (e.g., cell coverage area“flattening” in the instance of the bottom portion of FIG. 5F) may beutilized to maintain at least some overlap between adjacent cells. Inthe example of FIG. 5F, as the cluster boundary 571 b is reduced fromthe previous boundary 571 a (e.g., to reduce inter-clusterinterference), the cell shapes can be distorted so as to allow suchoverlap for load balancing. This distortion from e.g., a perfect circlecan be accomplished via power levels used on different sectors of eachCBSDe such that regions within the cluster boundary are insulated fromSASe interference mitigation (in effect, the ends of each ellipse in thebottom portion of FIG. 5F are treated as individual “interior CBSDedevices”, while antenna sectors of the CBSDes facing the boundary 571 band re mitigated as required by the SASe.

FIG. 5G is a graphical illustration showing the coverage areas andpartial overlap between a first six-base station cluster and a secondcluster, with one cluster having common membership. As shown, thecluster 590 consists of CBSDes/xNBs 406 a, 406 b, 406 c, 406 d, 406 e,406 f having respective coverage areas. The cluster edge or boundary 591separates those CBSDe devices (e.g., CBSDe N 406 n) that are outside ofthe cluster edge 591 from those which are inside of the cluster. In somevariants, the edge CBSDe 5 406 e, in the second cluster 594 may beshared between the different clusters, effectively maintainingmembership in each. For instance, the UE/FWA shown may be migratedbetween CBSDe 4 and CBSDe 5 when CBSDe 5 is acting as either part of thefirst cluster 590 or the second cluster 594, and different rules may beapplied under each different scenario.

It will also be recognized that normally, a CBSDe will not be part oftwo different virtual clusters. One way such “common membership” canarise is via individual CBSDe sector overlap. Specifically, in someimplementations, each of the CBSDe devices has multiple sectors (e.g., 3sectors of 120 degrees azimuth coverage each, as shown in FIG. 5H). Eachsector covers a different effectively non-overlapping area within thetotal coverage area 571 of that CBSDe. As such, two sectors of theaforementioned CBSDe (e.g., CBSDe 406 n in FIG. 5H) can be part of onevirtual cluster 597, and the remaining sector 595 part of anothervirtual cluster 596. Note that each sector of the same CBSDe 406 n willhave a different PCI associated with it, and hence the VC model of thepresent disclosure also contemplates clustering based on PCI values(versus a per-CBSDe basis).

Hence, as shown in the example of FIG. 5H, the sector 596 of CBSDe N 406n oriented toward the other cluster 596 is logically grouped with thethree 120-degree sectors of each of CBSDe 1 406 a, CBSDe 2 406 b, andCBSDe 3 406 c of the other cluster 596, even though the other twosectors of CBSDe N are grouped with the first cluster 597.

It is noted that in the illustrated example, the coverage of sector 595of CBSDe N and the coverage of two of the sectors of CBSDe 3 406 coverlap, thereby allowing the UE/FWA 314 in FIG. 5H to be migratedbetween the two CBSDe's; however, such overlap is not a strictrequirement for such cluster formations. For instance, the coverage ofsector 595 of CBSDe N might not overlap with any of the sectors of CBSDe3 or CBSDe 2, yet still maintain VC membership within the second cluster596. For instance, the transmit power of the sector 595 may be adjustedso that coverage of desired service areas is obtained, yet with no realoverlap (and hence minimized interference) with CBSDe 2 or CBSDe 3 ofthat cluster 596.

Moreover, it can be understood from the discussion above that individualsectors (versus entire CBSDe devices) can be considered “edge CBSD”devices as described elsewhere herein, and treated as such for purposesof e.g., load balancing or transmit power management.

It will be recognized that in each of the example configurations ofFIGS. 5A-5H (and others), a mix of CBSDe and CBSD (non-enhanced) devicesmay be operated within the same network, and in fact even within avirtual cluster (VC). For instance, where a cluster maintains asufficient number (depending on size/geometry) of enhanced CBSD 406,others of the VC population may be comprised of unenhanced CBSDs, suchas e.g., the interior (non-edge) CBSDs, as (i) existence of theseunenhanced devices can be determined by the CBSDe's in proximitythereto, and (ii) the CBSDs can be controlled in power by the SAS usingprior art methods. As such, implementation of the architecturesdisclosed herein does not require a “blanket” upgrade or replacement ofall CBSDs operating in a given network; rather, under one model,firmware upgrades to only a subset of CBSD devices to provide them withthe enhanced capabilities of a CBSDe 406 may be performed.

FIG. 6 is a graphical illustration showing UE traffic load balancingamong three base stations with overlapping coverage, according to thepresent disclosure. In this example, CBSDe devices 2 and 3 406 b, 406 cof one cluster have respective coverage areas 605, 607, the areas whichare located at the cluster edge, and are interfering with a CBSDe 1 406a having an overlapping coverage area 603. As shown, the UE?FWA 314 a islocated in the overlap between areas 603 and 605, and the UEs 314 b, 314c located in the overlap between areas 603, 607, can be migrated andconnected to CBSDe 1 406 a. In one scenario, one or more of the UE/FWAdevices 314 d etect (and measure parameters associated with) thenon-connected CBSDe devices and report such data to their host(connected) CBSDe devices. For instance, UE/FWA 314 a can detect CBSDe 1406 a which it is initially not connected to, and report this detectionto its host (CBSDe 2 406 b). Similarly, UE/FWA 314 b and nd 314 c maydetect CBSDe 1 406 a and report to their host 9CBSDe 3 406 c). Afterproper analysis, the SASe may responsively call for reduction of thetransmit power of CBSDe 2 and 3 after the UE/FWA have all been migratedto CBSDe 1 406 a. This approach intentionally collapses the overlapbetween areas 603 and 605, and similarly between areas 603 and 607, soas to mitigate interference, while also enabling load balancing of theUE/FWA's to CBSDe 1 (which may not have undergone any power reduction).

As previously noted, one primary attribute of the disclosure relates toits ability to balance the traffic load among the base stations (orindividual sectors thereof) while mitigating the interference.Specifically, when the base stations have overlaps in their coverageareas, the UEs located in the overlap can experience high levels ofinterference from the other base stations (and thereby reduced datarates). It will be appreciated that depending on the type of antennaelements (e.g., directional or omni-directional) used in the basestations 406 (e.g., 406 a, 406 b, 406 c), even a UE/FWA 314 located inthe overlap area may not be able to achieve high data rates and highquality of performance if the antenna geometry of the base stations donot support it. As such, highly directional antenna elements may beutilized on the base stations (to mitigate the interference in theoverlap area), and they are aligned to serve to the UEs in specific partof the cell (e.g., to form the elongated elliptical shapes shown in FIG.6). In one implementation, the CBSDe devices 406 may also have “smart”antenna capability that can steer the antenna beam toward the desiredtarget UE/FWA so as to maximize the receivedSignal-to-Interference-Plus-Noise in some part of the cell. Thissteering may be accomplished e.g., via beamforming techniques orso-called “massive MIMO” in 5G NR technology.

In another such implementation, the base stations 406 employing multipledirectional antenna element technology are configured to measure thereceived signal (e.g., on an UL channel from a UE/FWA), and extractmultipath wireless channel information relating to phase, amplitude andpath loss from the received signal. Such information can be used toestimate the interference in the overlap area in such a way to form adirectional beam towards the target area reducing the interference inthe coverage overlap areas. Various other similar approaches foroptimizing SINR or other signal-strength related parameters will berecognized by those of ordinary skill when given the present disclosure.

Methodology

Various methods and embodiments thereof for cluster-based interferencemanagement and load balancing via unlicensed or quasi-licensed (e.g.,CBRS GAA or PAL) spectrum according to the present disclosure are nowdescribed with respect to FIGS. 7-9A.

FIG. 7 is a logical flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of ageneralized method for utilizing clusters for interference managementaccording to the present disclosure. As shown, the method 700 of FIG. 7begins with first creating one or more virtual clusters (VCs) fromproximate base stations per step 701. For instance, base stations whichare disposed with one or more edges or points of contact can beconsidered immediately proximate for purposes of FIG. 7. As described ingreater detail elsewhere herein, such proximity can be determined in anynumber of different ways, including UE/FWA-based reporting, geographiclocation data (e.g., lat/lon) analysis, and/or others.

Per step 703, interference is determined at one or edges of the formedcluster(s). For instance, the interference may be estimated such as viamodeling (e.g., by the SASe 402), or actually measured/detected by e.g.,CBSDe devices 406 or UE/FWA.

Per step 705, the transmit power of one or more base stations disposedat the edge of the cluster where the interference was estimated/detectedis reduced, so as to mitigate the interference for at least one of the“conflicting” devices (which in reality may be both devices).

Per step 707, compensation for the reduction of coverage area resultingfrom the reduction of step 705 is performed (if required), such as byincreasing power of an interior (non-edge) base station within thecluster. This compensation may be performed dynamically or transientlyin some embodiments; e.g., to generate sufficient coverage overlap toenable handover of a user device from one base station to another, afterwhich the overlap is collapsed.

Lastly, per step 709, any required load balancing is performed. In oneembodiment, the load balancing is performed using methods and apparatusdescribed in co-owned U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 20190394678A1entitled “CAPACITY MANAGEMENT METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR USE IN ACITIZENS BROADBAND RADIO SERVICE NETWORK” and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,952,098 on Mar. 16, 2021, and 20200128540A1 entitled “METHODS ANDAPPARATUS FOR ESTIMATING WIRELESS NETWORK COVERAGE,” and issued as U.S.Pat. No. 10,912,086 on Feb. 2, 2021, each of which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety, although other methods andapparatus may be used consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a logical flow diagram illustrating one exemplaryimplementation of the generalized method of FIG. 7, in the context of aCBRS-based system with enhanced SAS (SASe) and enhanced CBSD (CBSDe)devices. As shown, in FIG. 8, the method 800 includes each CBSDe 406(see FIG. 4) first registering with the cognizant SASe 402, according toknown registration procedures within CBRS networks (step 803).

Next, per step 805, the SASe 402 grants spectrum (e.g., GAA or PAL) toeach CBSDe with which each may operate. These bands may be the same asor different from those used by other CBSDe devices, but typically willhave some level of diversity for load balancing purposes.

At step 807, the SASe (or a network proxy therefor) creates a virtualcluster comprised of neighboring CBSDe devices (including individualsectors thereof as applicable) within the network which areparticipating in load balancing. In some variants, each CBSDe may or maynot participate in load balancing based on one or more factors (e.g.,its own current load, presence of a neighboring CBSDe with frequencydiversity, etc.), and may affirmatively opt in or out of the clusteringprocess. This decision may also be made on behalf of the CBSDe by anetwork (e.g., MSO or MNO) proxy process which decides whether eachindividual CBSDe is properly included within load balancing at thatpoint in time.

At step 809, the SASe 402 determines interference for the participatingCBSDe devices 406. This determination may be (i) estimated, such asbased on path loss modeling for the known spatial relationships betweenthe various CBSDe devices (including distance between them, presence oftopological or other features, extant transmit power levels andfrequencies, etc.) as described in greater detail subsequently herein,and/or (ii) measured, such as by way of actual SINK, iPerf (i.e., packetthroughput), BER/PER, or other measurements taken at a given CBSDe (orsupplied by served UE/FWA). The interference is in one embodimentdetermined with respect to one or more other CBSDe devices external tothe cluster (i.e., an adjacent CBSDe operating individually or inanother cluster), but intra-cluster interference level (e.g., betweentwo edge CBSDe devices in the same cluster) may also be determined.

Per step 811, the SASe directs one or more CBSDe devices on the edge ofthe established VC (or individual sectors thereof) to reduce transmitpower in order to mitigate the determined interference. This may includefor instance a step-wise reduction and evaluation process; e.g., reducepower in a first increment, evaluate interference or data throughput viaactual measurements, and then continue reductions as required.

Moreover, the power of each of the CBSDe devices experiencinginterference may also be reduced concurrently. In that two (or more)CBSDe devices may each interfere with one another when transmitting (forinstance, where their respective transmit power levels are roughlyequivalent) due to assumed symmetric path loss models, satisfactoryreduction of interference may require that both devices reduce transmitpower. Similarly, for three interfering CBSDe devices, reduction ofpower for all three may be needed.

As can be appreciated, such reduction(s) of power can producesignificantly reduced coverage areas for each reduced CBSDe, includingloss of overlap with its neighbors. While this may help with e.g.,interference with respect to a neighboring cluster edge, it may reduceor even eliminate opportunities for load balancing within that cluster.As such per step 813 of the method 800, the SASe compensates for suchcoverage reduction (as needed) by boosting transmit power levelsassociated with one or more interior cluster cells, and/or use ofdirectional shaping of certain cells as previously described. Note thatthe compensation of step 813 may in some case be required only on atransient basis; e.g., to create sufficient overlap for UE/FWA handover,after which the power increase and/or shaping can be reduced so as tolimit interference while still maintaining sufficient signal level atthe receiving UE/FWA devices being served by the affected CBSDe devices.

It will also be recognized that under the exemplary 3GPP protocols usedherein, various features such as UE data collection and load balancingtransfers can be performed either in “idle” mode or in “connected” mode,thereby adding operational flexibility.

FIG. 8A is a logical flow diagram illustrating one specific variant ofthe method of FIG. 8. In this method 850, the CBSDe devices eachregister with the SASe per step 853, and sends it location informationto the SASe per step 855. Per step 857, each participating CBSDe alsocreates X2 connections with its neighboring CBSDe devices (i.e., thosegeographically proximate to it, as determined by e.g., the mechanismsdescribed subsequently herein with respect to step 909 of FIG. 9) tosupport data exchange between the CBSDe devices, and such data isreported to the SASe.

Based on the location and other data reported to the SASe 402, the SASecreates per step 859 a virtual cluster map which groups two or moreadjacent CBSDe devices into VCs within a given operating area or region.As discussed with respect to FIGS. 5A-5G supra, each of the VCs maycomprise different numbers of CBDE's, different shapes, and each may ormay not be contiguous with other VCs (e.g., some may merely be VC“islands” in a broader array of non-clustered CBSDe devices).

Per step 861, the SASe identifies cluster edge CBSDe devices, and perstep 863, identifies instances of one-way or two-way interference (i.e.,where only one CBSDe or sector interferes with another, but not viceversa, or mutual interference, respectively, such as via the modelingand/or measurements previously described. If the identified CBSDeinterferers are disposed ion a VC edge per step 865, the SASe implementsa power reduction (step 867) and compensation (step 869) such asinterior cell power increase or directional coverage area shaping.

FIG. 9 is a logical flow diagram illustrating another exemplaryimplementation of the generalized method of FIG. 7, in the context of aCBRS-based system with enhanced SAS (SASe) and enhanced CBSD (CBSDe)devices.

At step 903 of the method 900, each CBSDe sends registration requestdata to the SASe 402; if the SASe approves the registration request, itresponds to each CBSDeB with a CBSD ID, and registers the CBSDe(s).

Per step 905, once the CBSDe devices are registered with the SASe, eachsends the SAS its latitude and longitude information or other positionaldata enabling the SASe to determine its location (e.g., data such asazimuth of two or more other CBSDe devices or landmarks enablingtriangulation). As can be appreciated, the location data may also besent as part of the registration request.

Per step 907, after the SASe receives the position information from theCBSDe devices, the SASe allocates one or more PAL or GAA frequencychannels to each CBSDe. The SASe response includes detailed informationabout the frequencies that are available for each CBSDe to use, and mayinclude additional information which might be useful to the CBSDe whenit selects a frequency range to utilize (such as an initial transmissionpower level). In one variant, the initial power level is selected basedon (i) the maximum power allowed for the category (e.g., Category A or Bas previously described herein), such that the power does not exceedsuch level, and (ii) its operational condition (e.g., initialpost-installation startup, reboot, etc.). For example, in one suchapproach, the CBSDe includes logic which determines operational state(such as via one or more values loaded into registers on the CPSDe CPUor BB processor), and based on the determined state value, accesses aLUT or similar data structure to determine the appropriate “initial”power setting (none of which exceed its then-prevailing category limit).

Per step 909, each CBSDe creates an X2 connection with its neighborCBSDe devices. The X2 interface is a peer-to-peer connection, and allowsthe CBSDe devices to share information related to e.g., load-balancingand management. For example, in one embodiment, load-balancingevaluation data (i.e., that needed to assess whether to move one or moreUE/FWA devices 314 between CBSDe devices) and control/transfer data maybe transacted over the X2 interface. In one variant, the X2 interface isimplemented via the backhaul network of the MxO such as via a GbE orsimilar Layer 2/3 protocol, although other approaches may be used withequal success.

Various mechanisms can be used for determination of “neighbor”CBSD/CBSDe devices for a given CBSDe. In one approach, each CBSD/CBSDemaintains a neighbor list which lists the first-tier (i.e., immediatelycontiguous) neighbors of that device. This list can for example eitherbe created manually (such as by the MSO at time of installation), or viause UE-based measurement reports as described elsewhere herein. Forinstance, a UE reports the PCI values of CBSDs that the UE can detect,and these reported PCI values are sent to core network by the CBSDe inorder to obtain the IP address of the CBSD/CBSDe that transmits thegiven PCI (e.g., via a LUT or correlation process of the network whichrelates known CBSDs to then-assigned IP addresses, which notably may beeither static or dynamically varied). In response to the look-uprequest, the core network sends the IP address for each requested PCIvalue back to the requesting CBSDe, and that CBSDe connects to the other(detected) CBSD/CBSDe using the provided IP address (once the X2connection is established).

Per step 911, each CBSDe notifies the SASe whether it participates intraffic load balancing, such as by sending its unique identificationdata to a designated port/socket or API on the SASe. Alternatively, theSASe may poll CBSDe devices within a given area to determine if they areeligible to participate in load balancing, or an MSO node may inform theSASe on behalf of a group of CBSDe devices (e.g., via table or IElisting the participating CBSDe ID values) and a time window foreligibility. Myriad other approaches will be evident to those ofordinary skill given the present disclosure.

Per step 913, the SASe records each CBSDe participating in the trafficload balancing, and creates one or more VCs from the CBSDe devices (orindividual sectors thereof) participating in the load balancing. It willbe appreciated that the load balancing may be geographically ortopologically restricted within the network, and as such the SASe may insome embodiments only consider limited subsets of the entire populationfeasibly available for load balancing at any given time when creating orconfiguring (including even tearing down) VCs. For instance, even thoughsay thirty (30) CBSDe devices may be eligible for participating, theSASe may select a subset of only 15 for inclusion with one or more VCsat any given time, based on its analytical capabilities, the “optimum”size of a VC (from an efficacy or efficiency standpoint), and/or otherfactors.

Per step 915, each CBSDe notifies one or more UE/FWAs inside of itscoverage area to report the Physical Cell Identities (PCI) of each otherCBSDe/sector that each UE/FWA can measure. This data is reported back bythe serving (connected) CBSDe 406 to the SASe 402. The latter which canuse the data to identify proximate CBSDe devices for the serving CBSDe,including those which may be interfering or have overlap. For example,if a group of spatially proximate UE/FWA devices report a given PCI,then it can be presumed that the detected CBSDe is sufficientlyproximate to the serving CBSDe, and has at least some degree of coverageoverlap (i.e., if its signal can be detected it is at least sufficientlyproximate to the serving CBSDe such that the UE/FWA could feasibly handover to it at its current power level). Hence, in one approach, overlapcan be presumed based simply on detection of a CBSDe. More sophisticatedapproaches may utilize e.g., curve-fitting for coverage area functions(e.g., based on “hits” or detection by multiple UE/FWA at differentlocations), the SASe can computationally determine a best-fit functionrepresentative of the coverage area, which may be in some cases anirregular shape in contrast to the simplified representations presentedas examples herein.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing request/detect/reporting cyclecan be conducted once, or repetitively or iteratively by UE/FWA devices,whether simultaneously or in sequence. Temporal coherence between UEs(i.e., reporting at roughly the same time) may be important for someclasses of UE such as mobile devices, wherein their ability to detect agiven CBSDe may vary with time.

It will also be appreciated that the foregoing detection can be used tovalidate cluster maps and/or path loss models or estimates generated bythe SASe (or MSO proxy). For example, a SASe estimate may indicate thepresence of an overlap area between two cells of a cluster; however, ifan UE/FWA disposed within the putative overlap area cannot actuallydetect the second (non-connected) CBSDe, such as due to an atmosphericeffect, topological feature, or other condition not properly accountedfor within the modeling, then the model may be adjusted, and/or thecalculated overlap area reduced. As such, the UE/FWA 314 can act as insitu detectors for the SASe when constructing cluster maps andperforming/updating path loss estimates.

Returning again to FIG. 9, per step 917, once the UE/FWAs detect thePCIs (and any other data requested by the serving CBSDe), they reportthe collected data to their serving CBSDe.

Per step 919, once the CBSDe devices receive the PCIs from the UEs, andthen report them to the SASe.

Per step 921, after the SASe receives the reported PCI from the CBSDedevices, it creates a network overlap map. In one embodiment, the mapincludes data indicative of (i) each CBSDe location, and (ii) coveragearea of each CBSDe, based on a presumed or initial transmitter powerlevel. It will be appreciated that this “map” may take any number ofdifferent forms, and may vary from quite simple to more detailed. Forinstance, in one variant, the map comprises a table or listing of eachCBSDe, associated PCI, location (e.g., lat/lon), and a radius ofcoverage (e.g., in km) for a presumed power level (or sets of levels).Overlap can be calculated using readily known geometric/spatialrelationships and equations, such as calculating the points ofintersection of the two coverage area equations (r_(i) ²=x_(i) ²+y_(i)²) centered at respective CBSDe locations. Exemplary methods andapparatus for determining wireless coverage area, power headroom, andother useful data are described in co-owned U.S. Pat. No. 10,368,351issued Jul. 30, 2019 and entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ESTIMATINGCITIZENS BROADBAND RADIO SERVICE NETWORK COVERAGE”, incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety, although it will be recognized that othertechniques and apparatus may be used consistent with the disclosure, theforegoing being merely illustrative.

Per step 923, the SASe estimates the interference from the CBSDe deviceslocated at cluster edge on the neighbor cells or clusters in thenetwork. Estimated SINR levels may be mapped for each location based onthe calculated path loss and assumed transmitter power, treating theother CBSDe(s) as interferers for a given CBSDe being evaluated. Moresophisticated approaches may be used as well (including multivariatemodeling), consideration of topological features, known in-band emitterswhich may act as noise sources, etc. In some embodiment, the SASereceives the wireless propagation channels information from the CBSDedevices (e.g., phase amplitude, path loss), and estimates theinterference based at least in part on these parameters.

Per step 924, the SASe compares the interference level with one or morecriteria (e.g., a maximum threshold), and if interference is higher thanthe threshold, the method 900 proceeds to step 925, wherein a mechanismto mitigate the interference is employed.

For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, per step 925, the SASe maysignal the edge CBSDe devices causing the interference to reduce power.This may in some embodiments be a “blanket” reduction; i.e., across allenergized sectors of that CBSDe. Alternatively, the SASe may cause theedge CBSDe devices to adjust the shape of their coverage area, such asvia reduction of power only on certain sectors; i.e., those “pointing”in azimuth towards the external cluster(s) experiencing theinterference. The SASe may also implement a “trial and error” or otherscheme to determine the effects on interference from incremental stepreductions on various CBSDe sectors, whether singularly or incombination with others.

Per step 927, to account for any lost coverage area from power reductionthat needs to be compensated, the SASe increase the coverage area of theneighboring cells (e.g., one within the same cluster adjacent to thecell(s) for which power was reduced. This may include compensation fortwo or more adjacent cells within the cluster (e.g., those on eitherside of the reduced cell), and may also include interior or non-edgecells within the cluster (if any). Directional shaping may also be usedwhere possible to alter the shape of the coverage area, such as toachieve (i) closing of any gaps left in the coverage area of thepower-reduced CBSDe, so as to avoid “stranding” of UE/FWA in such areas,and/or (ii) creating a desired overlap between two or more cells so asto facilitate load balancing or other functions which require suchoverlap.

Per step 929, after the coverage optimization is performed at step 927,the relevant CBSDe(s) instruct the UE/FWA to which they are connected toagain measure the neighboring CBSDe signals, and report the detected PCIand other data for forwarding to the SASe at step 931. It will beappreciated that targeted subsets of the UE/FWA may be used for suchpurposes; e.g., those known to reside within a prescribed sector of theadjusted CBSDe, whether based on connection/association with thatsector, or known location (e.g., via lat/lon data from time ofinstallation). For instance, in one variant, the SASe 402 may instructthe adjusted CBSDe to poll specific UE/FWA devices only, or the CBSDemay simply issue a broadcast or blanket request to all served UE/FWA. Asanother alternative, only UE/FWA slated for transfer to another servingCBSDe (e.g., by way of load balancing) may be selected to report PCI andrelated data. Many such variants will be recognized by those of ordinaryskill given the present disclosure.

Lastly, per step 935, the SASe updates its network overlap “map”according to the updated CBSDe detection data as correlated to variouslocations within the coverage area(s).

Referring now to FIG. 9A, one specific implementation of step 923 ofFIG. 9 (i.e., to estimate the interference in cluster edge) according tothe present disclosure is shown and described.

As a brief aside, a short discussion on path loss propagation models isuseful at this juncture.

Path Loss models are used to predict large-scale coverage for wirelesscommunication system design, implementation and deployment. By usingpath loss models, processes such as the CPE/FWA 507 can estimate thereceived power as a function of e.g., distance, and can predict the SINRwhich should be achievable from e.g., certain sector of a CBSDtransmitting at a certain power level.

The propagation models used generally indicate that average receivedsignal power decreases logarithmically with the distance betweentransmitter and receiver. A path loss model for an arbitrary transmitterreceiver separation can be expressed as a function of distance, and anexponent, n as in Eqn. (1):

$\begin{matrix}{{{PL}({dB})} = {{{PL}\left( {d0} \right)} + {10{{n\log}\left( \frac{d}{d0} \right)}}}} & {{Eqn}.\mspace{14mu}(1)}\end{matrix}$

Where:

n is the path loss exponent which indicates the rate at which path lossincreases with distance;

d0 is the close-in reference distance; and

d is the transmitter receiver distance.

Equation (1) shows that the power decreases proportional to (1/d)^(n),as the distance d between transmitter and receiver increases. Theexponent n depends on the specific propagation environment. Table 4shows exemplary values of the exponent n for different environments.

TABLE 4 Environment Path Loss Exponent n Free Space 2 Urban Area 2.7 to3.5 Shadowed Urban Area 3 to 5 In Building Line-of-Sight 1.6 to 1.8Obstructed in Building 4 to 6 Obstructed in Factories 2 to 3

The reference model of Eqn. (1) is defined via field measurement atdistance d0 from the transmitter.

Log-Normal Shadowing

The model in Eqn. (1) does not consider the fact the propagationenvironment can have different propagation characteristic. Therefore, insome scenarios where the environment surrounding transmitter andreceiver are different, the estimated power from Eqn. (1) is vastlydifferent than the measured signal. As the measurement in the field hasshown, the path loss PL(d) at distance d from a transmitter is randomhas a log-normal distribution as defined by Eqns. (2) and (3):

$\begin{matrix}{{{PL}(d)} = {{{PL}\left( {d0} \right)} + {10{{n\log}\left( \frac{d}{d0} \right)}} + {X\sigma}}} & {{Eqn}.\mspace{14mu}(2)}\end{matrix}$

where Xσ is a zero-mean Gaussian random variable with standard deviationσ, andP _(RX)(d)=P _(TX)(d0)−PL(d)   Eqn. (3)

The log-normal distribution describes the shadowing effects which occurin in applications which have the same transmitter receiver distance,but have different propagation environments such as different presenceof obstacles (e.g., building, mountains, towers). The close-in referencedistance d0, the path loss exponent n, and the standard deviation σdefine the path loss model for transmitter receiver separation distanced. The path-loss model of Eqn. (2) can be used to estimate the receivedpower from a given CBSD 206 at the CPE/FWA antenna elements 723.

Table 5 below shows exemplary path loss exponent n values and shadowingstandard variation σ for different environments based on measurements,reported in “Wireless and Cellular Communications”, Thomas Schwengler,First Edition, Dec. 2019 which is incorporated here herein by referencein its entirety.

TABLE 5 Frequency Path Loss Source (GHz) Exponent n σ(dB) CommentsSeidel 0.9 2.8 2.8 Suburban Erceg 1.9 4.0 4.0 Terrain categoryFeuerstein 1.9 2.6 2.6 Medium Antenna height Abhayawardhana 3.5 2.132.13 Durgin 5.8 2.93 2.93 Residential Porter 3.7 3.2 3.2 Rautianinen 5.34.0 4.0 Schwengler 5.8 2.0 3.5 LOS 5.8 3.5 9.5 NLOS 3.5 2.7 11.7 NearLOS

The n and σ values depend on different propagation environments (e.g.,downtown, urban, rural) and operating frequencies as specified in Tables1-2 above. The values n and σ are initially determined at the time ofthe installation according to propagation environment as specified inTable 1-2. However, since the propagation environment may change,embodiment of the CPE/FWA 507 may dynamically perform parameterestimation and update n and σ values during e.g., the training period ofthe received data frame, and report the new values to the SASe 802. Thevalue PL(d0) is generally a fixed value, and is measured at the time ofinstallation of CPE/FWA in close-in measurement at distance d0 fromtransmitter, such as by an installer or other approach.

Exemplary path loss models which may be used consistent with the presentdisclosure are also described in co-owned U.S. patent application Ser.No. 16/214, 070 filed Dec. 8, 2018 entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FORTRANSMISSION POWER MANAGEMENT OF CITIZEN BROADBAND SERVICE,” and issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 10,764,841 on Sep. 1, 2020, and Ser. No. 16/221951filed Dec. 17, 2018 and entitled “PRIORITY ACCESS LICENSE HOLDER,” andU.S. Pat. No. 10,368,351 issued Jul. 30, 2019 and entitled “METHODS ANDAPPARATUS FOR ESTIMATING CITIZENS BROADBAND SERVICE NETWORK COVERAGE,”each of the foregoing incorporated herein by reference in its entirety,although other approaches may be used consistent with the presentdisclosure.

Returning to FIG. 9A, at step 953, the SASe 402 selects a path lossmodel to use in modeling the effect of interference, such as from thecluster edge CBSDe devices on a neighboring cluster/cell. For instance,in one embodiment, the SASe selects the pass loss model based onanalyzing the measurement data stored in its local database (or anetwork accessible database), and determines which models best fit thepropagation environment characteristics. For example, evaluationalgorithms might evaluate a predetermined (limited) set of parametersfor each candidate model from a plurality of candidate models, based onin situ data obtained by the SASe (such as that reported by theindividual CBSDe devices).

It will be appreciated that different models may be selected fordifferent applications and contexts; for example, one model may bebetter suited to propagation characteristics in one geographic servicearea of a given geographic region (such as one with hills and valleys)as compared to another service area within the same region (e.g., onethat is largely flat and backs up to a large body of water). At step955, the SASe estimates the path loss model parameters for use with themodel, including e.g., distance between the two nodes (e.g., two CBSDedevices) being modeled, exponent n, variance σ, etc., or retrieves thesefrom a database of such data. The model parameters are estimated in oneembodiment by application of curve fitting method that minimizes themean error between the estimated values and real (measured) values. Thedistance d between transmitter and receiver is estimated from e.g.,sounding reference signals, or can be determined by way of data providedto the SASe or the MSO proxy by the MSO core (the latter havingknowledge of its own CBSDe placements) and the location of the CBSDedevices—e.g., via use of lat/lon data for both devices to determinestraight-line distance.

Various aspects of the foregoing analysis and model/parameter selectioncan be performed by algorithms resident on the SASe (such as stored inprogram memory or mass storage), and/or can be offloaded in whole orpart to e.g., cloud processes, including in more sophisticatedapproaches such as those based on ML or DL (machine learning or deeplearning), whether within an MSO compute environment or an externalcloud process such as AWS or Azure. As such, the MSO may also buildtheir own more detailed or customized path loss models and parametersets for its own CBSDe devices, rather than relying on more genericmodels which may be provided by the SASe 402 in some cases.

Lastly, per step 957 of the method of FIG. 9A, the SASe then calculatesthe interference power affecting the neighboring cluster/cell based onthe model at step 957. For instance, this interference level might bedetermined via calculation of SINR values at each CBSDe pair (or group)being modeled, and/or at other locations of interest within eachcoverage area, with each CBSDe device's signal being modeled as “noise”relative to the other. As but one alternative, the SASe may develop a“heat map” or plot of SINR as a function of radius from each CBSDe underevaluation (e.g., two edge CBSDe devices) at prescribed transmissionpower levels; to the degree that any portions of the plot fall belowminimum acceptable SINR values for UE/FWA which may be operating inthose areas, the transmit power of the putative interferer is reducedand the effect on SINR for the given area of the coverage of the“interfered with” CBSDe evaluated until acceptable results (at leastoptimized for certain minimum power or other constraints) are achieved.

It will also be appreciated that the path loss model parameters dependon wireless channel characteristics, and are defined (primarily) at thetime of the installation. Once a new CBSDe is installed, it performs aninitialization process to determine the path loss model parameters. TheCBSDe measures the reference signals to estimate its specific wirelesschannel information and path loss parameters. Since the SASe maintainsdata on the CBSDe transmit power, it utilizes the associated path lossmodel to estimate the interference power from this CBSDe on theneighboring cluster/cell.

Moreover, the CBSDe devices (as well as UE/FWA devices connectedthereto) may also be configured to utilize one or more signalsindigenous within the underlying air interface protocols (e.g., 3GPPLTE/LTE-A or 5G NR in the exemplary configurations) to assess signalquality (and hence interference level) for a given sector or at a givenlocation within a coverage area, such as the CRS (cell-specificreference signal). As a brief aside, reference signals such as CRS inLTE support various functions, including channel estimation for MIMOdecoding (demodulation), determination of PM/COI/RI feedback, anddetermination of multi-user resource allocation (scheduling). In adownlink (DL), the cell-specific reference signals (CRS) are transmittedby the xNB on unique resource elements for each antenna port, and areallocated in frequency and time. Since the CRS for each antenna port aremutually orthogonal to one another, channel estimation techniques suchas interpolation can be used to determine estimates for the MIMOchannel. This channel estimate can be used to derive PMI, CQI and RIfeedback to determine the transmission scheme, and additional CQIreports may be requested from a given CPE/FWA by the xNB (CBSDe) for thepurpose of multi-user scheduling.

Hence, the mechanisms for assessing channel quality present within forexample the underlying LTE (or 5G NR) protocols may be leveraged by thelogic of the CBSDe in gathering information for subsequentevaluation/analysis by the SASe 402 or MSO proxy process. For instance,a CBSDe may cause its connected UE/FWA to make channel measurements andprovide such data back to the CBSDe for reporting to, and utilizationby, the SASe in channel modeling or interference determinationassessments, as well as development of the aforementioned heat map.

It will further be appreciated that while the SASe estimates the effectof the interference outside of or on an edge of a cluster in theembodiment of FIG. 9A, it does not need to estimate any interferenceinside the VC. In effect, interior regions of the VC are isolated fromthe SASe analysis, thereby allowing load-balancing or otheroverlap-related considerations to dominate.

It will be recognized that the foregoing approach also advantageouslyallows for a very low-overhead and efficient mechanism by which to bothoptimize coverage area (and hence served user count), and balance thetraffic load among the participating CBSDe devices. Specifically, usingan interference power estimation mechanism in the exemplary embodimentsobviates more sophisticated analyses of channel conditions; thetransmission power levels of the various CBSDe devices (known to theSASe) are readily determined and used in the pre-defined model in theSASe or MSO proxy node to estimate the interference level, and decidewhether any coverage area optimization is required. In low-loadenvironments (e.g., at off-peak times of day), no VCcreation/optimization or load balancing may be used in certain parts ofthe infrastructure, or if used, it readily may be dynamically adjusted.

FIG. 10A is a ladder diagram illustrating one embodiment of acommunication flow 1000 between one or more UE/FWA 314, enhanced SAS(SASe) 402, and one or more enhanced CBSDs (CBSDe) 406 within a cluster.In this flow, the enhanced SAS (SASe) 402 is configured to receive datafrom the individual CBSDe devices, including requests for participationin load balancing, and perform the above-described processes relating tooverlap map generation, path loss estimation, power reduction, andcompensation.

FIG. 10B is a ladder diagram illustrating another embodiment of acommunication flow 1050 between one or more UE/FWA, an unenhanced SAS202, an MxO Proxy 1052, and one or more enhanced CBSDs (CBSDe) 406. Inthis model, the fact that a common entity (e.g., MxO, such as a cableMSO or an MNO) may operate all relevant equipment including the CBSDedevices and UE/FWA 314, and as such has detailed knowledge of each'sposition (for fixed devices) at any time, as well as other informationsuch as blocked sectors (due to e.g., building facade installation),types of antennas (e.g., sectorized/omnidirectional), elevation, etc.which may allow the MxO to implement more precise path loss models. Inthat a s given SAS 202 may be cognizant over multiple differentoperator's networks, and/or may not have detailed information (at leastto the level the installing/operating MxO does), the approach of FIG.10B contemplates use of an MxO network-side entity (e.g., a SAS proxy)1052 with which the various CBSDe (and SAS 202) can communicate. In onevariant, the Proxy 1052 includes functions such as data collection,determination of load balancing pool population, cluster formation andmanagement, and power change and directional shaping determination, akinto the enhanced SASe of FIG. 10A. This offloads suchresponsibility/complexity from the SAS 202, and may provide betteraccuracy and performance due to the enhanced level of data available tothe Proxy. In one implementation, the Proxy 1052 generatesrecommendations or requests to the SAS based on its generatedcalculations and estimates, and submits these to the SAS 202 forapproval. This process, while shown as a single step in FIG. 10B, may beiterative in nature (e.g., a negotiation), with subsequent step s beingbased on completion of prior ones (e.g., such that the SAS can evaluateany repercussions of a given proposal/request, and implement changes inan incremental fashion). Using this architecture 1050, the loadbalancing and cluster formation may be completely invisible to the SAS;the SAS is unaware of the cluster logical abstraction or relationshipscreated by the MxO in support of load balancing.

SASe Apparatus

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of SASeapparatus with cluster/interference management functionality accordingto the present disclosure. In the illustrated variant, the SASe device402 includes, a processor apparatus or subsystem 1145, a program memorymodule 1150, mass storage 1148 (e.g., HDD, SSD such as NAND-based flashmemory, or other), cluster control logic 1135, map and path lossestimation module 1147, and network interfaces 1156 for communicationwith e.g., CBSDe 406, DP 208 (if any), and the MSO access network 310and backhaul network 1139.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processor 1145 may include one or moreof a CPU (e.g., multi-core CPU), digital signal processor, RISC core,microprocessor, field-programmable gate array, GPU, and/or plurality ofprocessing components mounted on one or more substrates. The processormay also comprise an internal cache memory, and is in communication witha memory subsystem 1150, which can comprise, e.g., SRAM, flash and/orSDRAM components. The memory subsystem may implement one or more of DMAtype hardware, so as to facilitate data accesses as is well known in theart. The memory subsystem of the exemplary embodiment containscomputer-executable instructions which are executable by the processor1145 or other data.

The processor 1145 is configured to execute at least one computerprogram stored in memory 1150 (e.g., a non-transitory computer readablestorage medium); in the illustrated embodiment, such programs includelogic to implement the cluster control (formation, modification,tear-down, etc.) functions, as well as API logic 1151 which enablesexternal devices such as the CBSDe devices or MxO network processes toaccess data from the SASe via application programming interface (API)calls. Other embodiments may implement such functionality withindedicated hardware, logic, and/or specialized co-processors (not shown).

Also included (not shown) is logic to manage spectrum allocation to theCBSDe devices across the three tiers of access (PAL, GAA, Incumbents).

The map and path loss processing module 1147 may be implemented as aseparate co-processor or ASIC as shown, or alternatively as codeexecuting on the CPU 1145. The map/path loss module 1147 utilizes pathloss model data stored within the mass storage 1148 (or a networkaccessible storage device) to select and implement various path lossestimates as previously described herein. CPE (e.g., UE/FWA 314) dataand CBSDe data, such as locations, number of sectors, azimuths ofsectors, installed height, etc. may be maintained in the mass storage ornetwork storage device(s) as well, so as to facilitate e.g.,determination of spatial relations for the various components, anddetermination of path loss parameters for the various models. Clusterparticipation data may also be retained by the SASe, such as historicalcluster membership, known “neighbors” for a given CBSDe, and the like.

In one variant the SASe includes data structures (such as LUTs withidentities of CBSDe devices) which permit correlation of data such aslocation, CBSD/CBSDe ID, and other data. Transmit power and frequencyband(s) assigned to each CBSDe may also be maintained in suchstructures, and dynamically modified as they change.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of MxOProxy apparatus with cluster/interference management functionalityaccording to the present disclosure. In the illustrated variant, theProxy device 1052 includes, a processor apparatus or subsystem 1245, aprogram memory module 1250, mass storage 1248 (e.g., HDD, SSD such asNAND-based flash memory, or other), cluster control logic 1235, map andpath loss estimation processing module 1247, and networkinterfaces/router functionality 1256 for communication with e.g., the DP208 (if any) and SAS 202 via the MSO access network 310, and with theCBSDe 406 via the MxO's backhaul network 1139.

As with the embodiment of FIG. 11, the processor 1245 may include one ormore of a CPU (e.g., multi-core CPU), digital signal processor, RISCcore, microprocessor, field-programmable gate array, GPU, and/orplurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates.The processor may also comprise an internal cache memory, and is incommunication with a memory subsystem 1250, which can comprise, e.g.,SRAM, flash and/or SDRAM components. The memory subsystem may implementone or more of DMA type hardware, so as to facilitate data accesses asis well known in the art. The memory subsystem of the exemplaryembodiment contains computer-executable instructions which areexecutable by the processor 1145.

The processor 1245 is configured to execute at least one computerprogram stored in memory 1250 (e.g., a non-transitory computer readablestorage medium); in the illustrated embodiment, such programs includelogic to implement the cluster control (formation, modification,tear-down, etc.) functions, as well as API logic 1251 which enablesexternal devices such as the CBSDe devices or SAS or DP to access datafrom the Proxy 1052 via application programming interface (API) calls.Other embodiments may implement such functionality within dedicatedhardware, logic, and/or specialized co-processors (not shown).

The map and path loss processing module 1247, similar to that for FIG.11, may be implemented as a separate co-processor or ASIC as shown, oralternatively as code executing on the CPU 1245. The map/path lossmodule 1247 utilizes path loss model data stored within the mass storage1248 (or a network accessible storage device) to select and implementvarious path loss estimates as previously described herein. CPE (e.g.,UE/FWA 314) data and CBSDe data, such as locations, number of sectors,azimuths of sectors, installed height, etc. may be maintained in themass storage or network storage device(s) as well, so as to facilitatee.g., determination of spatial relations for the various components, anddetermination of path loss parameters for the various models. Clusterparticipation data may also be retained by the Proxy 1052, such ashistorical cluster membership, known “neighbors” for a given CBSDe, andthe like. Advantageously, the MxO may have a wealth of data regardingindividual CBSDe devices, as well as UE/FWAs operating within itsnetwork, and as such may be best situated to accurately model path loss,SINR values, etc. Moreover, the Proxy 1052 may be configured to makeexpanded use of UE/FWA devices for collection of PCI, SINR, or othertypes of data so that it can build extensive detailed coverage and heatmaps.

As shown, the mass storage device 1248 may also include one or more SASrequest “templates” 1277 which can be used for communication with theSAS. In one variant, the SAS 202 is effectively a COTS/prior art SAS(i.e., unenhanced), and as such is restricted in the types and contentof data which it may receive, the processing it may perform, and theoutput it may provide. Hence, the Proxy 1052 may be configured topackage its communications with the SAS 202 in proper/extant protocolsand formats using the templates 1277, thereby maintaining compatibilitybetween the SAS and the Proxy 1052. For instance, the Proxy 1052 mayparse or disassemble more complex cluster-related data or requests intoindividual components which can be processed by the SAS, including viathe sequential or incremental “negotiation” protocols referenced above.

CBSDe Apparatus

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment ofCBSDe apparatus with traffic load balancing functionality according tothe present disclosure.

As shown, the CBSDe 406 includes, inter alia, a processor apparatus orsubsystem 1345, a program memory module 1350, mass storage 1348 (e.g.,HDD, SSD such as NAND-based flash memory, or other), basebandprocessor/MAC 1333, one or more network interfaces 1356, as well as oneor more radio frequency (RF) devices (e.g., LTE or 5G NR radios) 1331having, inter alia, antenna(e) 1321 and one or more RF front end modulesfor e.g., DAC/ADC, downconversion/upconversion/mixer functions, etc.Also included is a load balancing logic module 1311 which implementsload balancing functions for the CBSDe. The radios 1331 may utilize forexample OFDM-based modulation consistent with 3GPP protocols.

At a high level, the CBSDe maintains in effect two “stacks”; (i) aCBRS-compliant stack for communication of the CBSDe (acting as aCBRS-compliant entity) with other CBRS entities such as SASe/DP,according to e.g., the Signaling Protocols and

Procedures for Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS): Spectrum AccessSystem (SAS)—Citizens Broadband Radio Service Device (CBSD) InterfaceTechnical Specification—Document WINNF-TS-0016, Version V1.2.1. 3,January 2018, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and (ii)a 3GPP-coompliant LTE/LTE-A/5G NR “stack” for CBSDe (acting as a EUTRANeNB or gNB) communications with 3GPP-compliant UEs (mobile devices orFWA 314—see FIG. 4). These two stacks are implemented and controlled viathe logic of the CBSDe 406 such that CBSDe-to-SASe communicationprotocols and CBSDe-to-UE protocols are used in a coordinated fashion toenhance session continuity and perform the information reporting,channel grant, and load-balancing transfer functions as previouslydescribed.

The load balancing module 1311 (here, implemented as a separate ASIC orprocessor) manages the load balancing between different CBSDe 406. Forexample, in one embodiment, the LB module 1311 is configured to evaluateloading on the CBSDe 406 from e.g., UE/FWA 314, and determine situationswhere load balancing may be appropriate. Such situations may be e.g.,where data throughput associated with a particular sector is approachingor at capacity, when the backhaul is depleted (e.g., high packet latencyon a DOCSIS backhaul), or other such conditions exist. In such cases,the LB logic 1311 may generate a message or request to another CBSDe(e.g., via the X2 interface) to transfer load, such as by moving one ormore served UE/FWA to the target CBSDe on another frequency band. Inthat load balancing may be best served via a network-wide view of allCBSDe devices, the LB module 1311 may also be communicative with anetwork-based LB logic module 1477 (see FIG. 14) which can (i) receivedata from the CBSDe and other CBSDe devices relating to trafficthroughput or data rate in UL/DL, load, latency, or other metrics ofpotential use, and (ii) process the data and generate load balancingrecommendations or commands to be implemented by individual ones of theCBSDe devices. In this fashion, more coordinated or orchestrated loadbalancing within the broader network may be implemented, and individualCBSDe devices will not create “tail chasing” or “ripple” scenarios, suchas where individual CBSDe devices transfer load, only to have therecipient CBSDe become overloaded eventually, and require anothertransfer to another CBSDe, and so forth, thereby reducing network loadplacement stability. Moreover, the network LB logic process may alsohave connectivity to the cluster logic 1335 for each CBSDe, such that itcan make load balancing decisions based on cluster membership andavailability of overlap between certain cells.

The CBSDe 406 of FIG, 13 also includes reporting logic 1359 whereby thedetected or measured interfering CBSDe PCIs can be obtained from theUE/FWA 314 and reported to the SASe 402. Data reporting to/from otherCBSDe devices 406 via the X2 interface may also be controlled by thislogic 1359

The RF antenna(s) 1321 are configured to detect and transceive signalsfrom radio access technologies (RATs) in the service area or venue withwhich the CBSDe is associated. For example, LTE (including, e.g., LTE,LTE-A, LTE-U, LTE-LAA) signals may be used as the basis of communicationbetween the CBSDe 406 and the various mobile devices (e.g., UEs) and/orFWA devices. The antenna(s) 1321 may include multiple spatially diverseindividual elements in e.g., a MIMO- or MISO-type configuration, suchthat spatial diversity of the transceived signals can be utilized, andlikewise may be sectorized (e.g., wherein each of a plurality ofelements only covers a prescribed azimuth or sector, as described withrespect to FIG. 5H).

In the exemplary embodiment, the radio interface(s) 1331 comprise one ormore LTE/5G-based radios compliant with 3GPP. Additional unlicensed,licensed, or quasi-licensed air interfaces may also be used within theCBSDe, including e.g., Wi-Fi, non-CBRS band LTE, 5G NR mmWave, orothers. Moreover, the LTE radio functionality may be extended toincipient 3GPP-based 5G NR protocols; e.g., at maturation of LTEdeployment and when 5G NR-enabled handsets are fielded, such adaptationbeing accomplished by those of ordinary skill given the contents of thepresent disclosure.

As a brief aside, NG-RAN or “NextGen RAN (Radio Area Network)” is partof the 3GPP “5G” next generation radio system. 3GPP is currentlyspecifying Release 17 NG-RAN, its components, and interactions among theinvolved nodes including so-called “gNBs” (next generation Node B's oreNBs). NG-RAN will provide very high-bandwidth, very low-latency (e.g.,on the order of 1 ms or less “round trip”) wireless communication andefficiently utilize, depending on application, both licensed andunlicensed spectrum of the type described supra in a wide variety ofdeployment scenarios, including indoor “spot” use, urban “macro” (largecell) coverage, rural coverage, use in vehicles, and “smart” grids andstructures. NG-RAN will also integrate with 4G/4.5G systems andinfrastructure, and moreover new LTE entities are used (e.g., an“evolved” LTE eNB or “eLTE eNB” which supports connectivity to both theEPC (Evolved Packet Core) and the NR “NGC” (Next Generation Core).

As such, the various aspects of the present disclosure can be readilyadapted for use within the 5G NR context, including use of a CBSDe/gNB,and associated CU/DU functionality and “splits” to implement the clustermanagement and load balancing functions described herein. For instance,in one variant, the DU devices of a given CBSDe (“gNBe”) may beindividually managed as cluster participants, such as where a DU fromone gNBe and a proximate DU from another gNBe are grouped into a commoncluster and managed as such, even though their respective CUs may not beproximate to one another. Similarly, where a given gNBe has multiple DU(e.g., say ten), the individual DU can be clustered in subsets (and withDU of other gNBe) such that intra-gNBe clustering, overlap management,and load balancing can be performed.

Moreover, individual sectors of individual DU (each sector with its ownPCI) can be grouped within clusters as previously described, and hencein some variants sectors of the same DU may be part of respectivedifferent VCs.

The RF radios 1331 in one embodiment comprises a digitally controlled RFtuner capable of reception of signals via the RF front end (receivechain) of the RF radio(s) in the aforementioned bands, including in onevariant simultaneous reception of CBRS and non-CBRS bands (e.g., both2.300 to 2.500 and 3.550 to 3.700 GHz bands at the same time).

Service Provider Network

FIG. 14 is another functional block diagram of an exemplary MSO and MNOnetwork architecture useful in conjunction with various principlesdescribed herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the service providernetwork architecture 1400 includes the enhanced CBSDe 406, and supportsSASe 402 operation. It will be appreciated that while described withrespect to such network configuration, the methods and apparatusdescribed herein may readily be used with other network types andtopologies, whether wired or wireless, managed or unmanaged.

The exemplary service provider network 1400 is used in the embodiment ofFIG. 14 to provide backbone and Internet access from the serviceprovider's wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDe devices which backhaulWi-Fi APs or other equipment operated or maintained by the MSO via FWAdevices), and one or more stand-alone or embedded DOCSIS-compliant cablemodems (CMs) 1405 in data communication therewith.

The individual CBSDe devices 406 are backhauled by the CMs 1405 to theMSO core 307, and the MSO core 307 includes at least some of the EPC/5GCcore functions. Each of the CPE/FWA 1411 and UE 314 are communicativewith their respective CBSDe devices 406 via CBRS wireless links. Clientdevices 1414 such as tablets, smartphones, SmartTVs, etc. at eachpremises are served by respective WLAN routers 1409, the latter whichare backhauled to the MSO core or backbone via their respective CPE/FWA1411.

In addition, some of the individual CBSDe devices 406 are backhauled bythe MNO core 1423, and the MNO core includes at least some of theEPC/5GC core functions as well. Each of UE 314 are communicative withtheir respective CBSDe's 406. In one such scenario, UE users arecustomers of the MSO (e.g., subscribers), and the MSO and MNO have acontractual relationship to provide services to MSO subscribers whenthey are out of coverage areas maintained by the MSO (e.g., “out ofnetwork” for CBRS coverage, or roaming).

The approach of FIG. 14 has the advantage of, inter alfa, giving the MSOcomplete control over the service provider chain, including control overthe xNBe devices so as to optimize service to its specific customers(versus the non-MSO customer-specific service that may be provided by anMNO), and the ability to construct its architecture to optimizeincipient 5G NR functions such as network slicing, gNB DU/CU Option“splits”, etc., as well as freedom for placement of CBSDe devices in“hotspot” locations as previously described (versus cellular-basedplanning which may have been used when placing the MNO CBSD (CBSD 1),which may be doubling as or co-located with a cellular eNB or gNB usinglicensed or other spectrum).

It will be recognized that while certain aspects of the disclosure aredescribed in terms of a specific sequence of step s of a method, thesedescriptions are only illustrative of the broader methods of thedisclosure, and may be modified as required by the particularapplication. Certain step s may be rendered unnecessary or optionalunder certain circumstances. Additionally, certain step s orfunctionality may be added to the disclosed embodiments, or the order ofperformance of two or more step s permuted. All such variations areconsidered to be encompassed within the disclosure disclosed and claimedherein.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features of the disclosure as applied to various embodiments,it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changesin the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be madeby those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Thisdescription is in no way meant to be limiting, but rather should betaken as illustrative of the general principles of the disclosure. Thescope of the disclosure should be determined with reference to theclaims.

It will be further appreciated that while certain step s and aspects ofthe various methods and apparatus described herein may be performed by ahuman being, the disclosed aspects and individual methods and apparatusare generally computerized/computer-implemented. Computerized apparatusand methods are necessary to fully implement these aspects for anynumber of reasons including, without limitation, commercial viability,practicality, and even feasibility (i.e., certain step s/processessimply cannot be performed by a human being in any viable fashion).

What is claimed is:
 1. Computer readable apparatus comprising anon-transitory storage medium, the non-transitory storage mediumcomprising at least one computer program having a plurality ofinstructions, the plurality of instructions configured to, when executedon a processing apparatus, cause a computerized base station managementapparatus to: receive data relating to a location of a base stationapparatus, the base station apparatus being one of a subset of aplurality of base station apparatus of a wireless network; identify aradio frequency (RF) interference condition associated with at least oneof the subset of the plurality of base station apparatus; and transmitdata relating to one of increasing or decreasing a transmission power ofthe base station apparatus, the data relating to the one of theincreasing or the decreasing (i) derived based at least on theidentified RF interference condition and the data relating to thelocation, and (ii) configured to cause adjustment of the transmissionpower of the base station apparatus; wherein the one of increasing ordecreasing is part of a load balancing process conducted between twofrequency bands each between 3.550 GHz and 3.700 Ghz, the two frequencybands assigned to respective ones of the subset of the plurality of basestation apparatus participating in the load balancing process.
 2. Thecomputer readable apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofinstructions are further configured to, when executed on the processingapparatus, cause the computerized base station management apparatus to:transmit data indicating that the base station apparatus mustparticipate in the load balancing process controlled by the wirelessnetwork.
 3. The computer readable apparatus of claim 1, wherein: thebase station apparatus comprises a base station disposed on an edge of avirtual cluster formed by the computerized base station managementapparatus; and the transmission of the data relating to the one of theincreasing or the decreasing of the transmission power of the basestation apparatus, comprises transmission of data relating to adecreasing of the transmission power to reduce interference with anotherbase station apparatus disposed within a second virtual cluster.
 4. Thecomputer readable apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the base stationapparatus comprises a base station disposed on a non-edge portion of avirtual cluster formed by the computerized base station managementapparatus; and the transmission of the data relating to the one of theincreasing or the decreasing of the transmission power of the basestation apparatus, comprises transmission of data relating to anincreasing of the transmission power to compensate for at least some ofa loss of coverage area within the virtual cluster based on atransmission power reduction of another base station apparatus withinthe virtual cluster.
 5. The computer readable apparatus of claim 1,wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, whenexecuted on the processing apparatus, cause the computerized basestation management apparatus to: receive, from the base stationapparatus, identifying data associated with one or more base stationapparatus; determine, based at least on the identifying data and thedata relating to the location, that the one or more base stationapparatus is geographically proximate to the base station apparatus; andbased at least one the identifying data, transmit, to the base stationapparatus, data indicative of one or more respective network addressesof one or more base station apparatus to enable the base stationapparatus to establish data communication with the one or more basestation apparatus.
 6. The computer readable apparatus of claim 5,wherein: the identifying data comprises one or more respective PCI(physical cell identifier) values associated with the one or more basestation apparatus; the data indicative of the one or more respectivenetwork addresses comprises one or more respective IP (InternetProtocol) addresses associated with the one or more base stationapparatus; and the enablement of the base station apparatus to establishthe data communication with the one or more base station apparatuscomprises enablement of the base station apparatus to establish an 3GPP(Third Generation Partnership Project) X2 connection with the one ormore base station apparatus.
 7. The computer readable apparatus of claim1, wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, whenexecuted on the processing apparatus, cause the computerized apparatusto: estimate a level of interference created from the subset of aplurality of base station apparatus, the estimation comprising anestimation of a level of interference at one or more clusters edges byat least a selection of an interference model fitted to wireless channelpropagation; and compute an interference power from the selectedinterference model, the interference power caused by base stationapparatus disposed at the one or more cluster edges and affecting one ormore neighboring clusters that neighbor the one or more cluster edges;wherein the load balancing process is implemented to mitigate theaffecting of the interference power from the base station apparatusdisposed at the one or more cluster edges on the one or more neighboringclusters.
 8. The computer readable apparatus of claim 1, wherein theplurality of instructions are further configured to, when executed onthe processing apparatus, cause the computerized base station managementapparatus to: receive one or more respective PCI (physical cellidentifier) values associated with one or more base station apparatus ofthe subset of the plurality of base station apparatus; and based on theone or more respective PCI values, perform one of (i) a creation of, or(ii) an update to, a network overlap map associated with the subset ofthe plurality of base station apparatus.
 9. The computer readableapparatus of claim 1, wherein: the receipt of the data relating to thelocation of the base station apparatus comprises receipt of dataindicative of a longitude and a latitude of the base station apparatus;and the plurality of instructions are further configured to, whenexecuted on the processing apparatus, cause the computerized basestation management apparatus to: based on the data indicative of thelongitude and the latitude, determine that the base station apparatushas been one of (i) installed or (i) moved; and update a locationinformation database associated with the subset of the plurality of basestation apparatus.
 10. The computer readable apparatus of claim 1,wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, whenexecuted on the processing apparatus, cause the computerized basestation management apparatus to: form a virtual cluster of individualones of plurality of base station apparatus, the formation of thevirtual cluster comprising: a determination an optimum number of basestation apparatus within one or more virtual clusters; an evaluation ofdata relating to potential benefits and detriments associated with atleast one of (i) a sizes or (ii) a shape with respect to each of aplurality of virtual clusters, the data relating to the potentialbenefits and the detriments comprising data indicative of at least oneof (i) effects on or (ii) interactions with other virtual clusters ofthe plurality of virtual clusters; and based on the evaluation of thedata relating to the potential benefits and the detriments, select atleast one of (i) an optimized size or (ii) optimized shape for thevirtual cluster.
 11. A computerized method of operating a wirelessnetwork having a plurality of Citizens Broadband Radio Service Devices(CBSDs), the computerized method comprising: determining locations foreach of a subset of the plurality of CBSDs, the subset forming a shapehaving an outer boundary; identifying a radio frequency (RF)interference condition associated with at least one CBSD of the subsetof the plurality of CBSDs, the at least one CBSD having a coverage areawhich intersects the outer boundary; reducing a transmission powerassociated with at least part of the at least one CBSD; and increasing atransmission power of at least part of another one of the subset of theplurality of CBSDs to compensate for a loss of coverage area resultingfrom the reducing, the another one of the subset of CBSDs having acoverage area which does not intersect the outer boundary; wherein thereducing and the increasing are performed so as to maintain an overlapof respective coverage areas of at least two of the subset of theplurality of CBSDs so as to enable inter-CBSD load balancing.
 12. Thecomputerized method of claim 11, wherein the inter-CBSD load balancingcomprises load balancing between two CBRS (Citizens Broadband RadiosService) frequency bands assigned to respective ones of two CBSDsparticipating in the inter-CBSD load balancing.
 13. The computerizedmethod of claim 11, wherein the determining of the locations for each ofthe subset of the plurality of CBSDs comprises: determining a locationfor at least one CBSD of the subset; identifying at least one other CBSDof the plurality of CBSDs that is know to be geographically proximate tothe at least one CBSD of the subset; and forming a virtual groupingcomprising (i) the at least one CBSD, and (ii) the at least one otherCBSD.
 14. The computerized method of claim 13, wherein the forming ofthe virtual grouping comprising (i) the at least one CBSD, and (ii) theat least one other CBSD comprises forming the virtual groupingcomprising only a subset of a plurality of radio frequency sectors ofthe one of (i) the at least one CBSD, or (ii) the at least one otherCBSD.
 15. The computerized method of claim 11, wherein the identifyingof the radio frequency (RF) interference condition associated with theat least one of the subset of the plurality of CBSDs comprisesperforming computer modeling using one or more path loss or propagationmodels, the computer modeling based at least on the determinedlocations.
 16. The computerized method of claim 11, wherein: thereducing the transmission power associated with the at least part of theat least one CB SD comprises reducing a transmission power for only asubset of a plurality of individual sectors of the at least one CBSD;and the increasing the transmission power of at least a portion ofanother of the subset of the plurality of CBSDs, comprises increasing atransmission power for only a subset of a plurality of individualsectors of another CBSD.
 17. Computerized network apparatus configuredfor operation in a wireless network, the computerized network apparatuscomprising: processor apparatus; network interface apparatus in datacommunication with the processor apparatus; and storage apparatus indata communication with the processor apparatus, the storage apparatuscomprising at least one computer program configured to, when executed onthe processor apparatus, cause the computerized network apparatus to:receive data representative indicative of participation by a pluralityof wireless access point apparatus in a load balancing process;determine membership of each of the plurality of wireless access pointapparatus within a prescribed subset, the prescribed subset having knownlocation data related thereto; identify a radio frequency (RF)interference condition associated with at least one wireless accesspoint apparatus of the plurality of wireless access point apparatus;cause reduction of a transmission power associated with the at least onewireless access point apparatus; and cause increase of a transmissionpower of at least one other wireless access point apparatus of theplurality of wireless access point apparatus to at least partlycompensate for a loss of coverage area resulting from the reduction;wherein: the load balancing process comprises load balancing between twofrequency bands each between 3.550 GHz and 3.700 Ghz, the two frequencybands assigned to respective ones of two wireless access point apparatusparticipating in the load balancing process.
 18. The computerizednetwork apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at least one computer programis further configured to, when executed on the processor apparatus,cause the computerized network apparatus to: obtain reporting datarelating to at least a portion of the plurality of wireless access pointapparatus; and based at least on the reporting data, create one or morevirtual groupings or clusters of wireless access point apparatus withinthe wireless network, the one or more virtual groupings or clusterscomprising the prescribed subset and enabling performance of the loadbalancing process.
 19. The computerized network apparatus of claim 18,wherein the reporting data comprises at least one of (i) a PCI (physicalcell identifier), or (ii) transmit power, associated with an individualone of a plurality of sectors of the at least one other wireless accesspoint apparatus of the plurality of wireless access point apparatus. 20.The computerized network apparatus of claim 17, wherein the computerizednetwork apparatus comprises one of: (i) a computerized network spectrumallocation process in data communication with the wireless network, or(ii) a computerized spectrum allocation proxy entity within the wirelessnetwork.
 21. The computerized network apparatus of claim 20, wherein:the computerized network apparatus comprises the computerized spectrumallocation proxy entity within the wireless network; and thecomputerized spectrum allocation proxy entity, the at least one wirelessaccess point apparatus, and the at least one other wireless access pointapparatus are each operated by a common managed network operator. 22.The computerized network apparatus of claim 17, wherein the wirelessnetwork comprises a wireless network utilizing at least one of 3GPP(Third Generation Partnership Project) 4G (fourth Generation) Long TermEvolution or 5G (Fifth Generation) New Radio compliant infrastructure,and the computerized network apparatus comprises a Citizens BroadbandRadio Service (CBRS) SAS (Spectrum Allocation System).